How to Verify RERA Number Online?

The real estate sector in India has been historically fraught with challenges like project delays, lack of transparency, and fraudulent activities. To address these issues and protect the interests of homebuyers, the Government of India enacted the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, commonly known as RERA. 

One of the most significant provisions of RERA is the mandatory registration of real estate projects and agents with the respective state regulatory authorities, which then issue a unique identification known as the RERA number.

For anyone looking to buy property in India, whether residential or commercial, verifying the RERA number is an essential step. This verification helps ascertain the legitimacy of a project and the credentials of the developer or agent involved. 

This article provides a detailed yet easy-to-understand legal guide on how to verify the RERA number. It covers the importance of verification, step-by-step methods, common pitfalls, and helpful tips to ensure your investment is secure.

What is RERA?

The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, aims to regulate the real estate sector by introducing transparency, accountability, and consumer protection. It establishes Real Estate Regulatory Authorities in every state and union territory, responsible for registering and regulating real estate projects and agents.

What is a RERA Number?

Once a real estate project or agent registers with the state RERA authority, they receive a unique RERA registration number. This number is a proof that the project or the agent is officially registered and regulated under RERA guidelines.

Why Should You Verify the RERA Number?

1. Ensures Legitimacy: Verifying the RERA number confirms that the project or agent is legally registered, protecting you from fraudulent developers or brokers.
2. Promotes Transparency: Registered projects disclose important details such as project plans, approvals, timelines, and developer credentials, making it easier for buyers to make informed decisions.
3. Accountability of Developers: Registration makes developers accountable to the regulatory authority, providing buyers legal recourse in case of delays, defects, or other malpractices.
4. Protects Investment: By confirming the RERA registration, you reduce the risk of investing in unapproved or illegal projects.

What Documents or Information Do You Need Before Verification?

Before you begin the verification process, it is advisable to have the following information handy:

• The RERA number provided by the developer or agent (usually found in brochures, advertisements, or agreements).
• Name of the real estate project.
• Name of the developer or real estate agent.
• The state or union territory where the project is located.

Step-by-Step Guide to Verify RERA Number

Step 1: Identify the Official RERA Website of Your State or Union Territory

India has different RERA portals for each state or union territory, where all registered projects and agents are listed. You must visit the official website corresponding to the location of your project. Some popular RERA portals are:

State/UT	Official RERA Website
Maharashtra	https://maharera.mahaonline.gov.in
Karnataka	https://rera.karnataka.gov.in
Delhi	https://rera.delhi.gov.in
Tamil Nadu	https://rera.tn.gov.in
Uttar Pradesh	https://up-rera.in

Note: Always confirm you are on the official government portal. Avoid third-party or unofficial websites.

Step 2: Locate the RERA Registration Search or Project Search Option

Most RERA portals have a clearly visible option on the homepage or under the menu for searching registered projects or agents. Look for links titled:

• RERA Registered Projects
• Search Registered Projects
• Project Registration Search
• Search Registered Agents

Step 3: Enter the RERA Number or Project Details

Input the RERA number exactly as provided. Accuracy is crucial; even a small typographical error can result in “No records found.”

If you don’t have the RERA number, most portals allow you to search by:

• Project name
• Developer’s name
• Location (city, area, or locality)

Step 4: Review the Displayed Project or Agent Details

Once you submit your search, the portal will show detailed information including:

• Project name and location
• RERA registration number
• Date of registration and validity
• Status of the project (Ongoing, Completed, or Delayed)
• Name and details of the developer or agent
• Project specifications such as total units, plot size, and approvals
• Expected date of completion

Carefully review these details. Make sure they correspond with the information shared by the developer or agent. Any discrepancies could be a red flag.

Step 5: Save or Download the Information

It is good practice to download or take a screenshot of the RERA registration details. This record can serve as proof and reference during future interactions.

Step 6: Contact RERA Authorities for Clarification (If Needed)

If you have any doubts or notice inconsistencies, do not hesitate to reach out to the RERA authority of the state. Contact details such as helpline numbers, email addresses, or office locations are generally available on the portal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Verifying RERA Number

Mistake	How to Avoid It
Entering incorrect RERA number	Copy and paste or double-check the number before input
Searching in the wrong state portal	Confirm the state or UT where the project is located
Using unofficial or third-party websites	Always use official government RERA portals
Ignoring the registration validity or expiry date	Check the validity period and ensure the registration is active
Overlooking agent’s RERA registration	Verify that your broker or agent is also registered

Why It’s Important to Verify Agents’ RERA Registration?

Under RERA, not only projects but also real estate agents and brokers must register with the regulatory authority. Working with unregistered agents can expose you to risks such as false promises or misrepresentation. You can verify the agent’s registration similarly on the official state RERA website.

Legal Protection Offered by RERA

Once a project or agent is registered under RERA, buyers enjoy various legal protections:

• The developer must deposit at least 70% of the project funds in a separate escrow account.
• Timely completion of projects is mandatory, with penalties for delays.
• Structural quality and amenities must meet promised standards.
• Buyers have access to a grievance redressal mechanism through the RERA tribunal.
• All advertisements and sale agreements must carry the RERA registration number.

Thus, verifying the RERA number not only confirms registration but also ensures you enjoy these statutory safeguards.

How to Use RERA Verification to Make Informed Decisions

When you verify the RERA number and check project details, consider these factors:

• Project Status: Ongoing projects with updated progress reports and timely completion records are preferable.
• Developer Track Record: Research past projects of the developer to assess their credibility.
• Financial Health: Check if the developer follows the escrow fund norms.
• Legal Approvals: Ensure the project has necessary government clearances beyond RERA.

What To Do If You Find Irregularities?

If the RERA portal shows that:

• The project is not registered, or
• The registration has expired, or
• Project details on the portal do not match those shared by the developer,

then proceed cautiously. You may:

• Avoid investing in such projects.
• Seek legal advice from a RERA expert or lawyer.
• File a complaint with the state RERA authority.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is verifying the RERA number mandatory?

Yes, it is legally mandatory for developers to register their projects with RERA. For buyers, while it is not a statutory requirement, verifying the RERA number is essential for protection and due diligence.

2. Can I verify the RERA number for resale properties?

No. RERA regulations primarily apply to new projects registered after the Act came into force. Resale properties do not have a RERA registration number.

3. What if the RERA number is not mentioned in the developer’s documents?

Developers must display the RERA number in all advertisements and sale documents. If it is missing, ask for it before proceeding.

4. How often should I check the project status on the RERA portal?

It is advisable to check periodically, especially for ongoing projects, to stay updated on progress and any changes.

5. Does verifying the RERA number involve any fees?

No. Verifying the RERA number on the official portals is free of cost.

Role of Legal Professionals in RERA Number Verification

Though the process is straightforward, consulting a lawyer specialising in RERA can be very helpful, especially when:

• You are investing a significant amount.
• The project or developer has complex ownership structures.
• You detect any discrepancies or legal complications.

Conclusion

Verifying the RERA number is a fundamental step in safeguarding your real estate investment. It is a simple, free, and effective way to confirm the legitimacy of a project or agent and to ensure your rights are protected under the law.

By following the detailed step-by-step guide outlined above, you can confidently verify the RERA number through your state’s official portal. This will empower you to make informed decisions, avoid fraudulent projects, and have legal recourse if issues arise.

Remember, in real estate, knowledge is power. Do not proceed without verifying the RERA number. This small step can save you from costly mistakes and ensure your property investment journey is secure and transparent.

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