Understanding MahaRERA and Why It Exists
The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 — commonly known as RERA — was enacted to bring transparency, accountability, and consumer protection to India's real estate sector. In Maharashtra, the regulatory body implementing this law is MahaRERA (Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority). For home buyers in Pune, MahaRERA is one of the most powerful tools available to protect your investment.
This checklist helps you use it effectively.
1. Verify the Project's RERA Registration Number
Every legitimate residential project in Maharashtra above a defined threshold must be registered with MahaRERA before any bookings are taken. You can verify registration directly on the official MahaRERA website (maharera.mahaonline.gov.in) using the project's RERA registration number.
What to check:
- Registration status (Active / Lapsed / Revoked)
- Registration expiry date
- Registered project name and developer details
Red flag: Any developer unwilling to provide a RERA registration number.
2. Review the Declared Project Details
Registered projects must upload detailed information to the MahaRERA portal, including:
- Sanctioned building plans and floor plans
- Layout of the project on the land
- Promised amenities and specifications
- Number of apartments, towers, and phases
- Declared completion date
Compare these portal disclosures with the brochure and agreement you are being shown. Discrepancies should be questioned in writing.
3. Check the Developer's Track Record on the Portal
MahaRERA allows you to look up a promoter/developer and see all their registered projects — past and present. Check:
- How many past projects were delivered on time
- Whether any projects have complaints filed against them
- Whether the developer has received any regulatory orders or penalties
4. Confirm Land Title and Approvals
RERA registration does not automatically validate land title or all statutory approvals. Separately verify:
- 7/12 extract (Satbara) — land ownership and encumbrances
- Commencement Certificate — confirms work can legally begin
- Building plan approval — from the relevant municipal authority (PCMC or PMC)
- Environmental clearance (where applicable for larger projects)
5. Understand What the Sale Agreement Must Contain
Under RERA, the Sale Agreement must explicitly include:
- Carpet area of the apartment (RERA mandates pricing on carpet area, not super built-up area)
- Payment schedule linked to construction milestones
- Promised possession date with penalty clauses for delay
- Specifications of materials and fittings
- List of promised amenities
Do not sign any agreement that is vague on these points or that contains clauses waiving your RERA rights.
6. Understand Your Rights Under RERA
| Situation | Your RERA Right |
|---|---|
| Project delayed beyond agreed date | Interest compensation or full refund |
| Structural defect within 5 years of possession | Developer must repair at no cost |
| Developer changes approved plan without consent | Right to withdraw and claim refund |
| Mis-selling or false representations | File complaint with MahaRERA |
7. How to File a Complaint (If Needed)
If a developer violates RERA provisions, you can file a complaint online via the MahaRERA portal. The process is relatively straightforward and does not necessarily require a lawyer for initial filing, although legal representation is advisable for complex disputes.
Final Thought: RERA Is a Tool, Not a Guarantee
MahaRERA significantly reduces risk for home buyers in Maharashtra, but it works best when you actively use it. Verify registration, read disclosures, understand your agreement, and know your rights. A few hours of due diligence before signing can save months — or years — of legal and financial stress afterwards.