Key takeaways
You can complain to the state RERA authority about registered projects for violations of the Act, rules or your agreement.
Common grounds include possession delay, structural defects, changes in plans and failure to refund.
Most states, including Punjab, accept complaints online with a prescribed form and fee.
Compensation claims may go to the adjudicating officer; appeals go to the appellate tribunal.

If a developer or agent violates RERA or your agreement, the state RERA authority offers a specialised forum. Here is how to use it.

Who can complain?

Any aggrieved person, including buyers (allottees), associations of allottees and even developers against buyers or agents, can file a complaint about a registered project.

Common grounds

Ground	Example
Delay in possession	Possession not given by the agreed date
Refund	Developer fails to refund after cancellation
Defects	Structural or quality defects within five years
Plan changes	Changes without required consent
Misrepresentation	Amenities or specifications not delivered
Title issues	Defects in title
Non-registration	Project marketed without registration
Agent misconduct	Unregistered agent or false statements

Before filing

Write to the developer with your grievance and keep proof.
Gather documents: - Allotment letter and agreement for sale. - Payment receipts and bank statements. - Correspondence. - Brochures and advertisements. - Photographs of defects.
Check the project's RERA registration number.

Filing in Punjab

Punjab RERA accepts complaints online through its website. Choose the correct form for a complaint to the authority or for compensation before the adjudicating officer, fill in details, upload documents and pay the fee. Keep the acknowledgement. Other states have similar portals.

Authority or adjudicating officer?

Authority: for directions such as possession, interest for delay, refund and compliance.
Adjudicating officer: for compensation claims under specified sections.

Procedures have been shaped by court decisions; check the current practice on your state RERA website.

Hearings and orders

The authority issues notice to the developer and holds hearings, increasingly online. Attend every hearing or authorise someone. Orders are published on the website.

Appeals and execution

Appeals lie to the Real Estate Appellate Tribunal within the prescribed time, and then to the High Court.
If the developer doesn't comply, apply for execution. Orders can be recovered as arrears of land revenue in many states.

Alternatives

You may also be able to approach a consumer commission. See consumer commission vs RERA.

Frequently asked questions

Can I file a RERA complaint online in Punjab?

Yes. Punjab RERA accepts complaints online through its official website with the prescribed form and fee.

What documents do I need to file a RERA complaint?

Typically the agreement for sale, allotment letter, payment receipts, correspondence with the developer, brochures and evidence of defects or delay.

How long does a RERA complaint take?

It varies by state and case load. The Act expects complaints to be disposed of quickly, but timelines depend on the authority.

Can I complain about a project not registered with RERA?

Yes. Marketing or selling a project that should be registered without registration is itself a violation that can be reported.

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.

How to File a RERA Complaint Against a Builder

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