Buying a property is a major investment, and ensuring that it is RERA approved is one of the most crucial steps to safeguard your purchase.!
The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA), was introduced to protect home buyers from fraud, delays, and misleading advertisements. Essentially, it ensures that real estate developers and builders adhere to strict guidelines and maintain transparency in their projects.
If you’re planning to buy a property in Kolkata, you must certainly check its RERA approval status before making any commitment.
In this comprehensive write-up, we’ll guide you through the process, and help you understand the meaning of RERA approved properties, why it is important, and how to verify if a project is registered under RERA.
Table of Contents
Meaning of RERA Approved Projects
Before we look into the process of checking RERA approval, let’s first understand the meaning of RERA approved projects.
A RERA approved project is one that has been registered with the state’s Real Estate Regulatory Authority. This means that –
- The builder has provided complete project details, including land ownership, financial records, construction timeline, and legal approvals.
- The project is legally approved and free from major disputes.
- Buyers have protection against delays, misleading promotions, and fraud.
- The developer is accountable to complete the project within the specified time frame, or else compensation is given to buyers.
If a property is not RERA certified, you should be cautious before investing in it.
Why is RERA Approval Important?
A RERA registered property provides several advantages to homebuyers. Here’s why checking RERA approval status should be a priority –
- RERA ensures that builders disclose all necessary project details so buyers can make informed decisions.
- Delayed possession is a major issue in real estate. With RERA approval, developers are required to complete projects on time.
- RERA prevents unfair pricing practices, ensuring that buyers are not charged hidden fees.
- Many fraudulent builders promise great deals but fail to deliver. If a project is under RERA, it guarantees that it follows legal norms.
- If a project is delayed, buyers of RERA certified properties can claim compensation.
- RERA ensures that buyers receive all legal documents before making a purchase.
Now that you understand why RERA approval for plots and properties is important, let’s take a look at the step-by-step process of checking if a project is RERA registered.
How to Check RERA Approval in Kolkata: Step by Step
Under the West Bengal Housing Industry Regulatory Act (WBHIRA), all real estate projects in Kolkata and across West Bengal must be registered. However, some builders might still try to sell unapproved properties.
If you’re planning to buy a home, apartment, or plot, it’s essential to check whether the project is RERA approved before making any financial commitments.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to verifying a project’s RERA approval status in Kolkata.
Step 1: Visit the Official RERA Website for West Bengal
Each state in India has its own RERA website, where buyers can check project registrations, developer credentials, and other important details. In West Bengal, real estate projects are regulated under WBHIRA, which functions similarly to RERA in other states.
To check whether a project is RERA approved, visit the official website –
West Bengal RERA (WBHIRA) Portal: https://rera.wb.gov.in
This website provides information about RERA registered properties, project details, and complaint redressal mechanisms for buyers.
Step 2: Search for the Property or Project
Once you are on the WBHIRA (West Bengal RERA) website, follow these steps to check if a property or project is registered:
- Click on the “Project List” or “Registered Projects” option on the homepage.
- Enter the project name, promoter (developer) name, or location in the search bar.
- Click “Search” to view the results.
As for projects registered under RERA, they will appear in the search results with its RERA registration number, project status, and approval details.
Step 3: Verify the RERA Registration Number
Every RERA approved project has a unique RERA registration number assigned by the authority. If the developer claims that the property is RERA certified, ask them for this number and verify it on the WBHIRA portal.
If the RERA registration number is listed on the website and matches the project details, it confirms that the project is legally approved.
However, if the project does not appear in the search results, it is likely not RERA approved, and you should proceed with caution.
Step 4: Check Developer and Project Details
Even if the project appears on the WBHIRA RERA portal, take time to review the available details –
- Whether it is under construction or completed.
- Legal name, past projects, and track record.
- Expected completion date and any delays.
- Whether the builder has obtained clearances from municipal authorities.
- Any ongoing legal issues related to the project.
These details help ensure that the project is not only RERA registered but also legally compliant and financially stable.
Step 5: Review the RERA Certificate
Every RERA registered project has an official RERA certificate issued by the regulatory authority. This document contains critical information, such as:
- The RERA registration number
- The project’s legal status and approvals
- The builder’s obligations to complete the project on time
- The expected handover date
Ask the developer for a copy of the RERA certificate and compare it with the details available on the WBHIRA website. If the builder is unwilling to share the certificate or makes excuses, consider it a red flag.
Step 6: Cross-Check with Local Authorities
Even though RERA approval is a strong indicator of a project’s legitimacy, it is always good to conduct additional verification with local municipal authorities such as –
- Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) for urban properties
- Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) for larger developments
- HIDCO (Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation) for projects in New Town and Rajarhat
Visit the respective office or check their official websites to verify land records, building permits, and approvals.
Step 7: Ask for Legal Documents
Before finalizing any property purchase, ensure that you receive all legal documents from the developer, including –
- The Sale Agreement and Title Deed serve as proof of ownership and legal transfer of the property.
- The Encumbrance Certificate (EC) confirms that the property is free from financial liabilities or loans.
- The Land Use Certificate ensures that the plot is approved for either residential or commercial use.
- The Approved Building Plan verifies that the construction complies with legal guidelines.
Cross-check these documents with the RERA registration details to confirm their authenticity.
Why Checking RERA Approval in Kolkata is Important?
Many homebuyers unknowingly invest in projects that lack RERA approval, leading to risks such as –
- Project delays and cost overruns
- Disputes over land ownership
- Legal complications and penalties
- Financial loss due to fraud or incomplete projects
On the other hand, a RERA approved project provides –
- Legal protection and transparency
- Assurance of timely project completion
- Fair pricing with no hidden charges
Protection from fraudulent builders
How to Check RERA Approval for Plots?
Buying a residential or commercial plot is a major investment, and ensuring that it has RERA approval is crucial for a safe and legally sound purchase.
The Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) mandates that if the land development exceeds a specific size, it must be a project registered under RERA to ensure transparency and buyer protection.
If you’re considering purchasing a plot, you must verify its RERA approval status to avoid potential legal disputes, delays, or fraudulent sales.
Following is a quick guide on how to check whether a plot is RERA approved before making a purchase.
Step 1: Visit the Official RERA Website
Each state in India has its own RERA portal where registered projects are listed. To check if a plot is RERA approved, visit the official RERA website for the respective state. For Kolkata and the rest of West Bengal, you can access project details at https://rera.wb.gov.in.
Once on the website:
- Navigate to the “Projects” section.
- Choose the option to search for RERA registered projects.
- Enter details such as the project name, developer’s name, or location.
If the plot is RERA certified, it will appear in the search results along with important details like the registration number, developer credentials, and legal approvals.
Step 2: Verify the RERA Registration Number
Every RERA approved plot has a unique registration number assigned by the regulatory authority. If the seller or developer claims that the plot is RERA certified, ask for this number and cross-check it on the official RERA website.
The registration details should match the information provided by the developer. If the number is missing, incorrect, or does not appear in the database, consider it a red flag.
Step 3: Check Developer and Project Details
Even if a plot appears on the RERA registered properties list, it’s important to verify additional details –
- Ensure the developer legally owns the land and has the right to sell it.
- If the land is part of a larger development project, check the expected completion date and possession timeline.
- Confirm that the plot has clearance from municipal authorities and other regulatory bodies.
- Check if the plot has any pending legal disputes or conflicts.
Step 4: Verify the RERA Certificate
A RERA registered project will have an official certificate issued by the authority. Request a copy of the RERA certificate from the developer and compare it with the details available on the RERA portal.
The certificate should mention the registration number, project location, approved plans, and the validity period. If the developer hesitates to provide this document, reconsider your purchase decision.
Step 5: Cross-Check with Local Authorities
Although RERA approval provides significant legal backing, it’s always advisable to conduct further verification. Visit the local municipal corporation or development authority office to –
- Confirm land use permissions (residential, commercial, or agricultural).
- Verify environmental and zoning clearances.
- Check if there are any restrictions on plot development.
Step 6: Ask for Legal Documents
Before finalizing the purchase of a RERA approved plot, ask for a complete set of legal documents, including –
- Sale deed and title deed
- Encumbrance certificate
- Land conversion certificate
- Approvals from local authorities permissions have been obtained.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Even if a builder claims that a property is RERA approved, you should always double-check. Here are some warning signs that indicate a property may not be legally safe:
No RERA Registration Number
If a builder claims the property is RERA-approved but cannot provide a valid registration number or certificate, it’s a major red flag. Every legally approved real estate project must have a unique RERA registration number, which can be verified on the official RERA website.
Without this, the project may not be legally authorized, putting your investment at risk.
Fake RERA Approvals
Some fraudulent builders go to the extent of creating fake RERA approval documents to trick buyers.
Simply seeing an approval certificate isn’t enough, you should always verify the project’s registration details on the official RERA website. If the information doesn’t match or is missing, it’s best to walk away from the deal.
Unclear Possession Dates
A legally sound project will always have a clear and reasonable timeline for completion. If a builder is vague about possession dates or keeps changing the expected handover time, it could indicate financial troubles or legal hurdles.
Delays can lead to unexpected costs and frustration, so always ensure the timeline is well-documented.
No Legal Documents
Transparency is key when investing in property. If a builder hesitates or refuses to share essential legal documents, such as the title deed, approval certificates, or land ownership details, it’s a serious warning sign.
A genuine developer will always provide complete paperwork upfront, so never proceed without thoroughly checking all legal documents.
What to Do if a Property is Not RERA Approved?
If a property is not RERA approved, the first step is to understand why. Some developers may not register their projects under RERA due to legal complications, land disputes, or failure to meet compliance standards.
In some cases, smaller projects (below a certain size) may be exempt from RERA registration. However, this does not guarantee that they are safe investments.
Always ask the builder for clear documentation, including land ownership records, building approvals, and financial details. If they hesitate or provide vague responses, it is a major red flag.
Before making any payments, conduct thorough research. Cross-check the builder’s reputation by looking at reviews, past projects, and customer feedback. If the property is still under construction, ask for an official completion timeline and legal assurance that your investment is protected.
You can also consult a real estate lawyer to verify if the project is legally sound. Without RERA approval, there is a higher risk of project delays, hidden costs, and legal issues. If the builder refuses to register the project under RERA, reconsider your decision and explore alternatives.
If you are still interested in the property despite the lack of RERA certification, negotiate for stronger legal safeguards. Insist on a legally binding agreement with clear clauses on project completion, refund policies, and penalty terms in case of delays.
However, the safest option is to look for RERA registered properties that offer legal transparency and buyer protection. Investing in a RERA approved project ensures that your rights as a buyer are safeguarded, reducing the risk of fraud and financial loss.
Expro Realtors: Bringing You Only Verified and Risk-free Properties
Expro Realtors understands that buying a property is a big decision, and we don’t take it lightly. That’s why we thoroughly verify every project before listing it.
Our team cross-checks RERA registration details, legal approvals, and property documents to ensure complete transparency. We only work with trusted developers and never promote projects with unclear legal status.
This way, you can explore properties with confidence, knowing that they meet all the necessary legal and regulatory requirements.
When you choose Expro Realtors, you’re not just getting access to properties, you’re getting peace of mind. We go the extra mile to save you from legal hassles and financial risks by offering only RERA-approved and fully verified projects.
Whether you’re buying your first home or making an investment, our goal is to make your journey smooth and stress-free. Trust us to help you find a property that’s not just a great fit, but also safe and legal!
