Key takeaways
Homebuyers can often choose between the state RERA authority and a consumer commission.
The Supreme Court has held that RERA does not bar remedies under consumer protection law.
Consumer commissions are tiered by the value of consideration paid; RERA handles registered projects regardless of value.
Avoid pursuing the same relief in two forums at the same time; take legal advice.

When a builder delays possession or fails to deliver what was promised, buyers have more than one forum. Choosing the right one depends on your case.

The two main forums

Feature	RERA authority	Consumer commission
Law	RERA, 2016	Consumer Protection Act, 2019
Covers	Registered real estate projects	Deficiency in service, unfair trade practices
Who can file	Allottees, associations, others	Consumers
Value limits	None	District, state and national commissions by value of consideration
Typical remedies	Interest for delay, refund, compliance, compensation via adjudicating officer	Refund, compensation, costs
Appeal	Appellate tribunal, then High Court	Higher commission, then Supreme Court

The Supreme Court position

The Supreme Court has held that the remedy under RERA is in addition to, not in place of, remedies under the Consumer Protection Act. A homebuyer can choose either, but should not use both for the same relief at the same time.

Consumer commission value limits

Under the Consumer Protection (Jurisdiction of the District Commission, the State Commission and the National Commission) Rules, 2021, limits are based on the value of goods or services paid as consideration:

District: up to ₹50 lakh.
State: above ₹50 lakh up to ₹2 crore.
National: above ₹2 crore.

Check current limits before filing.

Choosing a forum

RERA is specialised and may be faster for registered projects and delay interest.
Consumer commissions suit unregistered projects, cases needing compensation for harassment, and where RERA lacks jurisdiction.
Civil courts handle title disputes and complex contracts.
Insolvency proceedings may affect claims if a developer is under insolvency.

Practical tips

Collect all documents and correspondence.
Send a written notice to the developer first.
Consider joining other buyers through an association or class complaint.
Take legal advice on the best forum.

Read how to file a RERA complaint and builder delayed possession.

Frequently asked questions

Can I go to consumer court instead of RERA?

Yes. The Supreme Court has held that RERA does not bar consumer protection remedies, so a buyer can generally choose either forum.

Can I file in both RERA and consumer court?

Pursuing the same relief in both forums at the same time is generally not permitted. Take legal advice.

Which consumer commission hears homebuyer cases?

It depends on the consideration paid: district for up to ₹50 lakh, state above ₹50 lakh up to ₹2 crore, and national above ₹2 crore, under current rules.

Is RERA faster than consumer court?

It often can be for registered projects, but timelines vary by state and case load.

Related HomeAcross guides

Official sources and further reading

This guide is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules, rates and procedures change; confirm current requirements with the relevant authority or a qualified professional before you act. Read our editorial policy.

Consumer Commission vs RERA: Where Should Homebuyers Complain?

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