If you are buying a flat, plot or commercial unit in a new project, checking its RERA registration should be one of your very first steps. The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 brought transparency and accountability to the Indian real estate sector, and every state now has its own RERA authority and website. Yet many buyers still never open the RERA portal before paying a booking amount.
Here is a simple, step-by-step guide to checking RERA registration and understanding what you find.
Key takeaways
- Every eligible project must be registered with its state RERA authority.
- Use the official state RERA website to search by project name or registration number.
- Check project details, approvals, completion dates and complaints.
- Confirm that agents are also RERA-registered where required.
- Verified information protects you from misleading advertisements.
Why RERA registration matters
RERA aims to protect buyers by requiring eligible projects and agents to register and disclose key information. Registered projects must share details such as approvals, timelines and project status on the RERA website. RERA also provides a complaint mechanism for buyers.
Most residential and commercial projects above a specified size or number of units must be registered before they are advertised or sold. Exact thresholds and rules can vary by state.
Step 1: Get the RERA registration number
Ask the builder or agent for the project's RERA registration number. It is usually printed on brochures, advertisements and the project website. If the builder avoids sharing it or says "registration is in process" while still taking bookings, be careful.
Step 2: Visit the official state RERA website
Each state has its own RERA portal — for example, the RERA website for Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and others. Search for "[your state] RERA official website" and make sure you are on the official government portal, not a look-alike site.
Step 3: Search for the project
Most portals allow you to search registered projects by registration number, project name, promoter (builder) name or district. Open the project's details page.
Step 4: Review the project details
Look for:
- Promoter details — the builder's name, address and past projects.
- Project details — location, land area, number of units, type of units.
- Approvals — sanctioned building plan, layout approvals and other permissions.
- Proposed completion date — the date by which the builder committed to complete the project.
- Quarterly progress updates — many states require builders to update construction progress.
- Land title information — details about ownership of the land.
Compare this information with what the builder told you and what the brochure says.
Step 5: Check for complaints and orders
Many RERA portals list complaints filed against projects or promoters, along with orders. A few complaints in a large project may not be unusual, but a pattern of complaints about delays, quality or refunds is a warning sign.
Step 6: Check the agent's registration
Real estate agents dealing in registered projects are also required to register with RERA in many states. Ask your agent for their RERA agent registration number and verify it on the portal.
Step 7: Verify carpet area and pricing
RERA requires carpet area-based disclosure. Compare the carpet area in your agreement with the RERA filing.
Warning signs
- The builder cannot provide a registration number for a project that should be registered.
- The registration number does not match the project name or location.
- The completion date on the portal is very different from what the builder promises.
- No progress updates have been filed for a long time.
- Multiple complaints about delays or non-delivery.
RERA registration is necessary, not sufficient
RERA registration does not guarantee that a project is perfect or that construction will be flawless. You should still:
- Have a lawyer review title and documents — see property documents checklist.
- Research the builder's track record.
- Visit the site — use the site visit checklist.
- Read the agreement carefully.
If something goes wrong
If a registered project faces serious delays or the builder fails to meet commitments, buyers can file a complaint with the state RERA authority through its official process. Keep copies of all agreements, receipts and communications. For complex cases, consult a qualified lawyer.
Step-by-step verification
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Get the RERA registration number from the developer's advertisement or brochure |
| 2 | Open the official RERA website of the state where the project is located |
| 3 | Search using the project name, promoter name or registration number |
| 4 | Review project details: approvals, layout, carpet areas, completion date |
| 5 | Check quarterly progress updates where available |
| 6 | Look for complaints or orders related to the project |
| 7 | Verify the agent's RERA registration if using a broker |
What the RERA page tells you
Project pages typically include promoter details, land title information, sanctioned plans, number and type of units, project schedule and progress updates. Compare these with the developer's marketing claims. Differences in area, amenities or timelines are warning signs that need clarification.
About the RERA Act
The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 was introduced to bring transparency and accountability to the real estate sector, with each state setting up its own authority and rules. Because rules vary by state, always refer to your state's official RERA website.
When to raise a complaint
If a registered project violates its commitments, buyers can approach the state RERA authority through its official complaint process. Keep agreements, receipts and communications organised. This article is general information, not legal or financial advice; consult a qualified lawyer or adviser before any property decision.
A 7-point RERA verification checklist
- Registration number matches the advertisement.
- Promoter name matches the agreement.
- Project address and land details are consistent.
- Approved plans match the unit you are buying.
- Completion date is realistic and recorded.
- Progress updates are regular.
- No serious unresolved complaints or orders. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is RERA the same in every state?
The central Act applies nationally, but each state has its own authority and rules.
Do resale flats need RERA registration?
RERA mainly applies to new projects; resale properties need separate due diligence.
What if a project is not registered?
Be very cautious and seek legal advice before proceeding.
Do property agents need RERA registration?
In many states, agents dealing in registered projects must register. Check your state's rules.
Can RERA help with possession delays?
Buyers may file complaints with the authority according to state rules and the agreement.
Can I check RERA details on my phone?
Yes. Most state RERA websites work on mobile browsers, and some states provide official apps. Always use the official government site rather than third-party copies.
What does a lapsed registration mean?
It may indicate the project's registration period has ended without extension. Seek clarification and legal advice before proceeding.
A note on advice
This article shares general information to help buyers understand the process. It is not legal advice. Rules and portal features differ by state and change over time, so always verify on the official RERA website and consult a qualified professional.
Final thought
Checking RERA registration takes just a few minutes but can save you from years of stress. Make it a habit before every property decision. For more guidance, read my checklist before buying a flat and explore A Property Agency.
Jitendra Wadhwani
Global Entrepreneur · AI & Tech Expert · Digital Marketing & SEO · International Business Coach
Jitendra Wadhwani is an Indian businessman and global entrepreneur who leads HYRAX COMMUNICATION PVT LTD, a 15 years trusted company, and its ventures DND Teams, Viral In City and A Property Agency. He works as an AI and tech expert, digital marketing, social media and SEO expert, international business coach, trainer and YouTuber, serving clients and audiences across India, the USA, UK, UAE, Europe and worldwide. Everything he writes comes from hands-on work with real businesses, creators and learners.