The Indian real estate market has historically been plagued by issues like project delays, lack of transparency, and limited accountability. To address these challenges, the Government of India introduced the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, commonly known as RERA, in 2016. This landmark legislation was a turning point for property buyers across the country, ensuring their interests are protected. In Haryana, the Haryana Real Estate Regulatory Authority (HRERA) plays a pivotal role in implementing this law.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything a homebuyer needs to know about RERA in Haryana — from its objectives and scope to its benefits, registration process, and how it empowers buyers.
What is RERA?
RERA stands for the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016. Its main goal is to bring transparency, accountability, and efficiency to the real estate sector. The Act mandates registration of all residential and commercial real estate projects with the respective state regulatory authority before they are marketed or sold.
Each state has its own RERA authority. In Haryana, the body responsible for enforcing this legislation is the Haryana Real Estate Regulatory Authority (HRERA). It operates through two separate offices — HRERA Gurugram (for districts falling under the Gurugram division) and HRERA Panchkula (for the rest of Haryana).
Objectives of RERA
The central purpose of RERA is to safeguard the interests of homebuyers and enhance transparency in real estate transactions. Key objectives include:
Ensuring timely delivery of projects.
Mandating project registration to avoid fraud.
Creating a grievance redressal mechanism for buyers.
Increasing accountability of builders and developers.
Requiring disclosure of project details like timelines, layout, and funding.
Key Provisions of HRERA for Homebuyers
1. Mandatory Project Registration
Under HRERA, all real estate projects above a certain size must be registered with the authority. No builder can advertise, market, or sell any property in a project without first obtaining a RERA registration number.
2. Transparency in Project Details
Developers must upload critical project information on the HRERA portal — including layout plans, financial statements, construction progress, and possession timelines. This allows buyers to make informed decisions.
3. Timely Delivery
One of the major pain points for homebuyers has been project delays. RERA mandates that developers adhere to possession timelines as stated during registration. Failing this, they are liable to pay penalties and interest to the buyer.
4. Escrow Account Requirement
At least 70% of the amount collected from buyers must be deposited in a dedicated escrow account. These funds can only be used for project-specific expenses, thus preventing fund diversion to other ventures and minimizing construction delays.
5. Advance Payment Limitations
Builders cannot demand more than 10% of the total cost of the property as an advance without signing a formal agreement of sale. This provision protects buyers from making large payments without legal backing.
6. Grievance Redressal
Buyers can file complaints online directly with HRERA if developers violate any rules. The authority has the power to investigate and penalize erring builders, offering buyers a structured platform for dispute resolution.
HRERA Gurugram vs. HRERA Panchkula
Haryana is unique in having two separate RERA bodies:
HRERA Gurugram: Oversees real estate regulation in districts like Gurugram, Faridabad, Palwal, Nuh, and Rewari — areas with high property investment and dense urban development.
HRERA Panchkula: Covers the rest of Haryana, including cities like Panchkula, Karnal, Panipat, Hisar, Rohtak, and others.
This division ensures more efficient monitoring and quicker resolution of complaints in both high-density and semi-urban areas.
How RERA Empowers Homebuyers
RERA has significantly shifted the power dynamic in real estate. Before this regulation, homebuyers had little recourse against delays or misinformation. Today, they enjoy several protections:
Legal Assurance: Buyers can rest assured that all registered projects are legally compliant and monitored.
Access to Information: With transparent access to project status, payment schedules, and timelines, buyers can plan their investments better.
Right to Refund or Compensation: In case of project delays, buyers are entitled to interest on the amount paid or even a refund in certain cases.
Accountability: Builders are now bound to honor their commitments regarding possession timelines and promised amenities.
How to Check Project Registration on HRERA
To verify if a property is registered under RERA:
Visit the official website of HRERA Gurugram or HRERA Panchkula.
Go to the “Registered Projects” section.
Enter the name of the project, developer, or location.
Review the project details, timelines, and legal status.
Conclusion
RERA has brought a new era of transparency and accountability in Haryana’s real estate sector. For homebuyers, it offers a safer and more informed buying experience, helping them avoid fraud and secure legal remedies in case of disputes. Whether you're purchasing a flat in Gurugram or a villa in Karnal, make sure your property is HRERA-registered.
For developers, too, RERA has instilled discipline and credibility — paving the way for a more trustworthy and organized real estate market.
Before making any property investment, always check for RERA registration and explore project details on the official HRERA portal. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in your real estate journey.
