Among the most notable achievements of the year were the disposal of a record 6,945 complaints, the scheduling or hearing of all complaints registered up to November 2025, issuance of 4,282 project registration numbers, integration of all 481 planning authorities with MahaRERA’s verification system, and a dramatic improvement in compliance related to quarterly and annual project updates.

All Complaints Registered up to November 2025 Taken Up for Hearing

There has long been a perception among homebuyers that complaints filed with MahaRERA remained pending for extended periods, sometimes running into years. Recognising that timely redressal is central to protecting the legitimate interests of homebuyers, MahaRERA undertook a comprehensive overhaul of its complaint-handling mechanism.

Under the leadership of Mr. Manoj Saunik, Chairman, MahaRERA, along with Mr. Mahesh Pathak, Member-1, and Mr. Ravindra Deshpande, Member-2, a structured process was implemented to significantly accelerate hearings. As a result, cases that had remained unresolved for several years were successfully taken up and disposed of.

During the calendar year 2025, a total of 5,039 new complaints were filed, while orders were passed in 6,945 complaints, exceeding the number of fresh filings and providing substantial relief to aggrieved homebuyers. In comparison, 3,824 cases were resolved in 2024 and 2,784 cases in 2023. The number of complaints filed stood at 3,880 in 2024 and 4,000 in 2023.

Although 6,916 complaints remain pending, MahaRERA confirmed that all complaints registered up to November 2025 have either been heard or have had their hearing dates scheduled. For the first time since its inception, MahaRERA has achieved a system wherein complaints are acknowledged and scheduled for hearing within one to two months of filing.

Clear Criteria Introduced for Out-of-Seniority Hearings

From 2025 onwards, MahaRERA has mandated that complaints be heard strictly in the order of seniority. However, in compliance with directions from the Honourable Bombay High Court, the authority has also laid down specific criteria under which hearings may be conducted out of turn.

Such exceptions apply in cases where the complainant is suffering from a life-threatening illness, where a review or rectification application has been filed against a MahaRERA order, where specific directions have been issued by a higher judicial authority, or where both parties have reached a mutual settlement. In cases citing medical grounds, submission of valid medical certificates has been made mandatory.

4,282 Housing Projects Granted MahaRERA Registration in 2025

Maharashtra continues to lead the country in the number of registered housing projects, and MahaRERA has maintained strict scrutiny while granting registrations, extensions, and amendments. Every project proposal undergoes detailed technical, financial, and legal evaluation, with multiple departments working to ensure timely approvals for compliant projects.

As a result of these efforts, 4,282 housing projects were granted MahaRERA registration numbers in 2025.

City-wise data shows Pune leading with 1,144 projects, followed by Mumbai City (103) and Mumbai Suburban (587), which together account for 690 projects. Thane stood third with 675 projects, followed by Raigad (384), Nashik (283), Nagpur (281), and Palghar (258).

Region-wise, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) topped the list with 2,119 projects, followed by the Pune Region (1,361), Vidarbha (346), Khandesh (319), and Marathwada (137 projects), including 91 projects from Sambhaji Nagar.

All 481 Planning Authorities Integrated for CC Verification

The state has 481 planning authorities responsible for issuing construction permissions. Until recently, verification of Commencement Certificates (CCs) was possible online only for projects falling under the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai, while CCs from other authorities had to be emailed manually, leading to delays in project registrations.

In 2025, MahaRERA successfully integrated all 481 planning authorities with its system. Approved plans and CCs are now available online, enabling seamless verification, faster processing of registrations, and reduction in potential irregularities.

SOP Introduced for Recovery of Compensation Awarded to Homebuyers

To ensure effective enforcement of its compensation orders, MahaRERA introduced a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for recovery. If developers fail to comply with compensation orders, a hearing is conducted within four weeks.

Non-compliant developers are required to submit an affidavit disclosing all movable and immovable assets as well as bank account details. Based on this information, the respective District Collector’s office initiates recovery proceedings, including attachment and auction of assets or recovery from bank accounts. Developers who fail to submit the affidavit may be referred to the Principal Magistrate and face imprisonment of up to three months.

Registration Certificates Now Carry Comprehensive Project Information

Earlier, MahaRERA registration certificates contained limited details, such as the name and address of the project and promoter. In 2025, the scope of information was significantly expanded.

The certificate now includes the total project area, details of buildings and wings, number of floors, count of residential and non-residential units, Commencement Certificate particulars, permitted floors, and details of two-wheeler, four-wheeler, and visitor parking. Information on extensions and amendments is also provided, enabling homebuyers to access all essential project data directly from the certificate.

Mandatory Prominent Display of MahaRERA Details in Advertisements

MahaRERA has made it mandatory for all housing project advertisements to prominently display the MahaRERA registration number, official website address, and QR code. The font size for these disclosures must be the same as that used for the project’s contact number and address. Any violation attracts penal action against the developer.

Quarterly and Annual Project Update Compliance Rises to 80%

To empower homebuyers with real-time project information, MahaRERA has strictly enforced the submission of Quarterly Progress Reports (QPRs)—including Forms 1, 2, and 3—and Annual Progress Reports (Form 5).

As a result of sustained monitoring and enforcement, the compliance rate has surged to 80% in 2025, compared to a mere 0.02% when monitoring first began. These disclosures allow homebuyers to assess a project’s progress and financial status without physically visiting the site.

Also Read: MahaRERA Appellate Tribunal Rejects Developer’s Appeal Over Delay in Filing

The post MahaRERA’s Landmark Decisions in 2025 Strengthen Homebuyer Protection and Industry Accountability appeared first on Square Feat India.

• Parties: The complaint was filed by Raajyam Realty LLP (the promoter) against Radhika Ganatra and Rishabh G. Mastaram (the allottees / homebuyers), regarding a flat in Amity Apartments (MahaRERA Reg. No. P51800004960).
• What promoter wanted: Raajyam Realty claimed the buyers had not paid full sale consideration (balance ₹14 lakh + GST) under the agreement for sale dated 8 July 2019. They alleged that the buyers moved in, started residing before giving full payment, and thus committed breach.
• Promoter asked MahaRERA to:
  1. Declare the agreement and booking as cancelled and terminated.
  2. Direct buyers to sign a deed of cancellation before sub-registrar within 15 days.
  3. Allow promoter to forfeit ₹20 lakh + claim additional ₹20 lakh for trespass.
  4. If buyers don’t comply, allow promoter (or government authority) to execute cancellation deed unilaterally or register it and recover unpaid dues (₹ 65.3 lakh plus interest).
• Buyers’ response: Buyers (Ganatra & Mastaram) argued: OC (Occupancy Certificate) was not valid — the promoter had only a conditional OC (pending statutory certifications like Section 270A for water supply). They also said no formal possession letter was issued by promoter, so balance payment was not due yet. They disputed GST liability and raised other project deficiencies (water supply, parking, amenities).

In short — a serious conflict: promoter said buyers defaulted; buyers said promoter hasn’t legally offered possession.

What the Authority (MahaRERA) Ruled

• The hearing was conducted by Manoj Saunik — Chairperson, MahaRERA.
• MahaRERA noted: the Occupation Certificate produced by promoter dated 4 March 2022 is not a final and valid OC — it is conditional, subject to statutory certifications (MOLOI / IOA / MMC’s 270A water-supply clearance).
• The buyers have already filed separate consumer proceedings (Consumer Complaint No. 154/2024) claiming deficiency in service; those litigation proceedings are pending.
• Crucially: MahaRERA observed that eviction, recovery of flat / possession, cancellation of agreement, eviction or unilateral cancellation deed registration — these are proprietary and possessory rights. These fall outside the jurisdiction of MahaRERA.
• Because the reliefs sought are beyond what the Real Estate (Regulation & Development) Act, 2016 empowers MahaRERA to do, the complaint was dismissed.

The Chairperson held that such matters must be pursued before a competent civil court — MahaRERA cannot substitute itself for a civil court in matters of eviction or property recovery.

Final Order: Complaint dismissed, no costs awarded.

Why This Order Matters — What It Means for Homebuyers and Promoters

Clarifies the Limitations of MahaRERA

• Many promoters or buyers may assume MahaRERA can enforce civil-property rights (eviction, cancellation, possession recovery).
• This order clearly states those powers lie with civil courts — not MahaRERA.

Prevents Misuse of RERA for Civil Disputes

• Disputes over payment defaults, possession timing, ownership rights are often tangled.
• This judgment prevents misuse of RERA regulations to bypass due legal process (civil suits) in pursuit of unilateral cancellation or possession recovery.

For Homebuyers: Extra Protection

• Buyers get a safeguard — they cannot be evicted or treated as defaulters through RERA if they believe the project lacks valid OC or if possession was not lawfully offered.
• They can raise complaints or deficiency-of-service claims via appropriate forums (Consumer Court or civil court) without fear of summary eviction under RERA.

For Promoters: Legal Caution Required

• Promoters must ensure: valid/final OC, formal possession letters, clear title transfer documentation, and follow payment terms strictly.
• If buyers default, promoters can’t expect RERA to grant eviction or forfeiture — they must go to civil court.

The post MahaRERA Cannot Decide Issues Relating to Eviction or Recovery of Flat appeared first on Square Feat India.

In a case that exposes the limits of RERA as a safeguard for homebuyers, the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) has ordered relief to three allottees—Pooja Dudani, Ashok Dudani and Bhavna Dudani—after a five-year delay in possession of their flat in Tycoons Valley Tower A (Emerald Wing), a project of Milestone Space in Kalyan (Reg. No. P51700009259).

The order highlights a painful truth: even with RERA in place and a registered agreement signed after the Act came into force, possession is not guaranteed on time.

Flat Booked in 2018, Promised Possession in 2019… Still Waiting in 2025

• Agreement Signed: 31 January 2018
• Promised Possession Date: 31 December 2019
• Flat: 606, Emerald Wing, Tycoons Valley
• Amount Paid: Approx. ₹37.9 lakh

Despite paying nearly 80% of the flat cost, the Dudani family says the project’s construction saw long periods of complete inactivity, forcing them into years of rent, financial stress, and health consequences, especially for senior citizen Ashok Dudani.

Homebuyers: Financial Loss, Emotional Toll, and Broken Promises

The complainants told MahaRERA:

• They were repeatedly promised possession — first in 2019, then 2021 — but deadlines kept shifting.
• They were assured ₹25,000 per month as rent compensation, which never materialized.
• Construction remained stalled for years, with no even basic updates from the promoter.
• They incurred rent expenses, medical costs, and mental distress over the extended delay.

Initially, they asked for refund + interest, but considering sunk costs and emotional investment, they later sought possession plus interest for the delayed period.

Promoter’s Defence: PILs, TDR Issues, Demonetisation, GST, COVID

Milestone Space claimed the delay was due to external and uncontrollable causes:

• Litigation around the Dombivli dumping ground causing CC delays
• Reservation and TDR complications
• GST rollout, demonetisation
• COVID-19 force majeure
• Financial crisis due to heavy infrastructure investment

The promoter argued that they received extensions up to 30 June 2024 under Section 7(3) and therefore cannot be faulted for the delay.

They also rejected the homebuyers’ request for free parking, offering only a 50% discount, which the complainants did not accept.

Conciliation Attempts Failed — Buyers Proposed Settlement, Promoter Declined

During hearings, the complainants presented a settlement proposal:

• 50% of the calculated delayed interest (~₹16 lakh)
• Free parking
• No interest on the remaining payable amount
• Compensation worth ₹5 lakh
• Fixed possession date with penalties

The promoter refused all except the waiver of interest on the pending amount, which led to the case moving to final adjudication.

MahaRERA: Delay is Undisputed, Homebuyers Entitled to Interest

MahaRERA observed:

• Promoter is bound by the 31 December 2019 possession date mentioned in the registered agreement.
• Delays of this magnitude clearly violate Section 18 of the RERA Act, which guarantees:
  • Interest for every month of delay, if the buyer chooses to stay in the project
  • OR refund + interest, if the buyer opts out

Since the complainants chose to continue with the project, they became entitled to monthly interest for the delay period, until possession is delivered.

Why This Case Matters

This order reinforces a harsh reality:

A RERA registration and a registered agreement do not guarantee timely possession.

Even after the Act came into effect, and even in a regulated environment, homebuyers can face:

• Multi-year delays
• No rent reimbursement
• Incomplete construction
• Uncertainty around delivery
• Long legal battles

The Dudani family’s case—spanning 5+ years of delay and multiple broken promises—is a stark reminder that RERA ensures accountability, but cannot prevent delays caused by poor planning, financial weakness, or regulatory issues.

Homebuyers Across Maharashtra Are Asking the Same Question

If RERA can penalize developers only after delays occur, does it really protect buyers from delays at all?

The Tycoons Valley case brings this debate back to the forefront.

Also Read: MahaRERA Officer Will Now Register Your Flat or Cancellation Deed if Builder Refuses

The post RERA Can’t Guarantee Delivery: MahaRERA Orders Justice After 5-Year Delay appeared first on Square Feat India.

In a major relief to a distressed homebuyer, the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) has ruled against the developer of the Viijcon Cellandine project in Pune for failing to deliver possession on time. The regulatory body has ordered a full refund along with interest, marking a strong stance in favor of genuine allottees suffering from project delays.

The Project and Its Delays

The project, registered under MahaRERA No. P52100004315 by Viijcon Properties, was initially supposed to be completed by 31st December 2017. However, the developer revised the deadline to 31st January 2021, and later extended it again to 31st March 2024. As of the order date (22 May 2025), no Occupancy Certificate (OC) has been received, leaving homebuyers in limbo.

The Complaints

Four separate complaints were heard by MahaRERA in a virtual session on 24th April 2025. The complainants included individuals and one association, all of whom alleged non-delivery, non-refund, or financial loss due to delays:

1. Complaint 1 – Involved a business barter for a flat against unpaid dues for construction services. It was dismissed due to absence of a clear promoter-allottee relationship and lack of documentation.
2. Complaint 2 – A buyer who paid ₹7.3 lakh and never received a flat or registered agreement. This too was dismissed due to missing documents.
3. Complaint 3 – An association that had lent ₹1.5 crore to the developer under a high-interest agreement (25% p.a.) and was allotted flats as collateral. MahaRERA deemed this a money lending dispute, not a homebuyer issue, and dismissed it.
4. Complaint 4 – Royal Dsilva, a homebuyer who had booked a flat in October 2017, paid ₹35 lakh (funded through IndiaBulls Housing Finance), and was promised possession by 31 July 2020. The project remains incomplete, and MahaRERA ruled in his favor.

MahaRERA’s Key Observations

• The developer violated Section 18 of the RERA Act, which mandates refund with interest if possession is delayed beyond the promised date.
• The flat purchaser had submitted a registered agreement dated 08.09.2017, clearly showing the agreed possession date as 31.07.2020.
• As no OC has been issued and the project has lapsed as of 31.03.2024, the authority found the developer in breach of contract.

The Final Order for Complaint 4

• The developer must refund the entire amount paid by the complainant (excluding taxes, stamp duty, and registration fees).
• Interest will be calculated from 1st August 2020 until the date of full payment, as per Rule 18 of MahaRERA Rules.
• The amount must be paid within 60 days of the order.
• A cancellation deed for the flat must be executed within 30 days of refund.
• The developer must also apply for an extension of the project registration within 30 days, or face penalties under Section 63 of the RERA Act.

Why This Order Matters for Homebuyers

This ruling sends a strong message that:

• Delays in possession without valid reason or documentation are not tolerated.
• Homebuyers with registered agreements have clear legal recourse under Section 18 of the RERA Act.
• MahaRERA will dismiss non-genuine complaints or those outside its jurisdiction, ensuring its platform is used effectively by real allottees.

Conclusion

The MahaRERA’s decision in this case highlights the importance of documentation, timely possession, and accountability from builders. It also reaffirms the authority’s role as a pro-homebuyer watchdog, ensuring that real estate transactions in Maharashtra remain transparent and fair. Homebuyers are encouraged to maintain proper paperwork and approach MahaRERA confidently in case of genuine grievances.

Also Read: MahaRERA suspends registration of 388 developers for not providing quarterly updates

The post MahaRERA Orders Full Refund with Interest to Homebuyer for Possession Delay appeared first on Square Feat India.

In the first phase, MahaRERA issued a 30-day deadline for developers to respond to the notices. Developers of 5,324 projects submitted replies, with 3,517 providing their Occupancy Certificates (OC) and 524 seeking extensions for project completion. The responses of 1,283 projects remain under scrutiny.

However, 3,499 projects have not responded, prompting MahaRERA to initiate further action. These projects risk suspension of registration, transaction restrictions, and other penal measures.

Promoting Accountability and Transparency
MahaRERA Chairman Manoj Saunik highlighted the critical role of transparency and accountability in the real estate sector. “The primary objective of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 is to ensure transparency, accountability, and financial discipline in the real estate sector, ultimately protecting homebuyers’ interests,” he stated.

He noted that while the law mandates quarterly and annual updates on project status, compliance has been inconsistent. “In January 2023, only three out of 748 projects had submitted the required information. However, consistent follow-ups have resulted in significant improvement, as seen in the response to our recent show cause notices,” Saunik added.

Strict Measures to Enforce Compliance
Developers registering with MahaRERA must declare their project’s proposed completion date and update the authority if there are delays. They must submit Form 4 with the OC upon completion or apply for an extension if required. Quarterly Progress Reports (QPRs) and annual updates are also mandatory.

Non-compliance with these obligations has led to the suspension of defaulting projects and freezing of their bank accounts. MahaRERA has also instructed Joint District Registrars not to process transactions for these projects, further tightening measures to enforce compliance.

The authority has reiterated its commitment to protecting homebuyers and ensuring that developers adhere to the timelines and reporting requirements outlined in the Real Estate Act.

With 1,950 registrations already suspended and more stringent action expected against non-responding projects, MahaRERA continues its robust efforts to bring transparency and discipline to the real estate sector.

Also Read: conciliation forum MahaRERA

The post MahaRERA Suspends Registration of 1,950 Real Estate Projects for Non-Compliance appeared first on Square Feat India.

In a significant move aimed at boosting residential construction quality, the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) has mandated that all developers submit a ‘Quality Assurance Certificate’ at the end of each financial year. This new regulation, part of the MahaRERA General (Amendment) Regulations, 2024, was officially published in the Government Gazette and will be enforced immediately.

New Certification Requirement

The ‘Quality Assurance Certificate’ is set to become a key element in ensuring higher construction standards. The certificate will assess various aspects of the construction process, including structural design, stability, material quality, fire safety measures, and the skill level of the workforce. Developers are now required to submit these certificates to MahaRERA and publish them on their websites annually.

This regulatory change follows a comprehensive consultation process initiated by MahaRERA in December 2023. A draft circular outlining the requirements was released for public feedback until May 23, 2024. After incorporating expert opinions and suggestions, the final regulations were established to enhance construction quality and developer accountability.

Strengthening Accountability

Under the new regulations, developers will have to demonstrate adherence to stringent quality control measures throughout all stages of construction. This includes verifying the quality of materials, conducting essential tests, and ensuring compliance with standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards and other relevant codes. Developers must also document and certify any independent third-party quality checks involved in the project.

The move is designed to mitigate the need for defect rectification, which under current provisions requires developers to address any deficiencies at no cost to the homebuyer for a period of five years. By raising construction standards through the ‘Quality Assurance Certificate,’ MahaRERA aims to make such defect liabilities unnecessary.

Statement from MahaRERA Chairman Ajoy Mehta

“Quality should be a cornerstone in every sector, and the housing industry is no exception. The introduction of the ‘Quality Assurance Certificate’ is a strategic step towards setting a higher benchmark for construction standards. This regulation will drive transparency and accountability, ensuring that developers follow best practices and ultimately provide better quality homes. Our aim is to make the defect liability period irrelevant by preemptively addressing quality issues.”

Implications for Homebuyers and Developers

For homebuyers, the ‘Quality Assurance Certificate’ provides an added layer of confidence, as it ensures that the projects they invest in meet high-quality standards. For developers, the requirement to publicly disclose quality certifications serves as a strong incentive to adhere to best construction practices, thereby enhancing the overall quality of residential projects.

This new regulatory measure is expected to create a more transparent and accountable real estate market in Maharashtra, benefiting both consumers and industry stakeholders alike.

Also Read: Pune Real Estate Market Sees 50% Surge in Registered Transactions; Average Home Sales Value Hits Record

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