One of the most important reforms in India’s changing real estate market is the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016. It promises accountability, openness, and equity in a sector that was historically tainted by opacity. Nonetheless, sometimes-used terminology like “RERA-registered” and “RERA-approved” is still unclear to many homebuyers. Understanding the RERA Approved meaning is important and crucial for anyone planning to invest in real estate.
By exploring these concepts and outlining their meanings, this blog assists consumers in making wise investment choices.
What is RERA? A Brief Overview
Understanding the basics is essential before we tackle the terminology ambiguity. In order to maintain project openness, control the Indian real estate market, and shield purchasers from deceptive advertising, hidden fees, and building delays, RERA was put into place.
A RERA registration is required before any developer or builder of a residential or commercial project (above a specific size) can advertise or sell.
What is RERA Registration?
To obtain a unique RERA registration number, real estate developers must register their projects with the appropriate State RERA Authority. This figure formally attests to the project’s compliance with all Act-mandated requirements.
RERA-registered developers must disclose:
- Project layout plans
- Approvals from authorities
- Timeline for delivery
- Financial statements
- Land ownership details
This registration ensures legal compliance and buyer protection.
What is RERA Approved Meaning? Clearing the Confusion
What does it mean to be RERA approved? Although it lacks a formal definition in the Act, the term “RERA-approved” is frequently used in marketing materials.
RERA-approved and RERA-registered are equivalent in practice, but only “registered” is recognized by law. No distinct approval procedure exists. Therefore, always request the registration number and confirm it on your state’s RERA website if a project says it is “RERA approved.”
Key Differences Between RERA-Registered and RERA-Approved Projects
| Criteria | RERA-Registered | RERA-Approved (Informal Term) |
| Legal Definition | Clearly defined in the RERA Act | Not legally defined |
| Enforceability | Legally binding | Not enforceable |
| Buyer Protection | Fully covered under RERA | No protection unless registered |
| Verification | Verifiable on state RERA portals | Cannot be verified officially |
| Common Usage | Legal term used in compliance reports | Informally used in marketing |
Is It Good to Buy RERA Approved Projects?
Let’s make the question clear: Is purchasing RERA approved projects a good idea? “RERA-approved” means “RERA-registered,” thus the answer is affirmative. Such initiatives are subject to duties for timely delivery, transparency, and legal assurance. Never, however, depend just on words. Check the registration number on the official website at all times.
Is RERA Approval Mandatory for Plots?
This leads us to yet another frequently asked question: Are plots required to have RERA approval?
Yes, provided the plotted development satisfies the following minimal requirements:
- Land area exceeds 500 sq. metres
- More than 8 plots are offered for sale
RERA registration is then required. Although registration might not be necessary if the project doesn’t match these requirements, buyers should still complete their research before investing.
Benefits of Choosing a RERA Registered Project
The buyer of an RERA-registered project can benefit greatly from:
- Project Timeline Assurance: Promoters are required to finish the project by the specified deadline.
- No Plan Deviations: Buyers must give their two-thirds approval before any layout changes can be made.
- Escrow Compliance: 70% of the money raised must go toward that project alone in order to comply with escrow regulations.
- Transparent Dealings: Explicit details on project status, carpet area, and approvals.
- Legal Remedy: RERA tribunals are easily accessible in the event of a disagreement.
What are the Disadvantages of RERA?
RERA has changed the game, but it has drawbacks as well. What are RERA’s drawbacks, then?
State-wise implementation varies: Some states enforce laws more effectively than others.
Smaller projects are not included: Regulation frequently does not apply to projects that fall below the minimum criteria.
Limited knowledge: A lot of purchasers are not aware of their RERA rights.
Delays in grievance redressal: RERA tribunals still have backlog problems, despite being superior to civil courts.
What is the Difference Between RERA and Non-RERA Projects?
Another frequently asked question: What is the difference between RERA and non-RERA projects?
| Aspect | RERA-Registered Project | Non-RERA Project |
| Legal Accountability | Strong, regulated under the Act | No structured legal accountability |
| Buyer Protection | High | Low |
| Financial Transparency | Funds tracked and restricted | Potential for fund misuse |
| Project Timeline Assurance | Mandatory | No penalty for delays |
| Information Disclosure | Detailed and publicly available | Limited or unavailable |
How to Check if a Project is RERA Registered?
Buyers should always verify the RERA registration number. Here’s how:
- Visit your state’s official RERA portal (e.g., maharera.mahaonline.gov.in for Maharashtra).
- Click on “Registered Projects.”
- Enter the registration number or project name.
- View complete details of approvals, timelines, land titles, and financial disclosures.
Never invest in a project just because it’s marketed as “RERA approved” without verifying the status.
How to Spot Fake “RERA-Approved” Claims
Not every “RERA approved” claim is accurate. To confirm legitimacy:
- Request the RERA Registration Number and look it up on the RERA site for your state.
- Terms like “in process” or “RERA applied” are not confirmations of registration, so be wary of them.
- Compare the portal listing with the project details (builder name, layout, and location).
- For verification, always request the actual RERA registration certificate.
To steer clear of deceptive advertisements or unregistered enterprises, buyers need to independently verify the status.
How to File a Complaint Under RERA?
Buyers facing delays, false claims, or non-compliance can file a complaint online through their state’s official RERA portal. The process involves:
- Registering as a complainant
- Filling out the complaint form with supporting documents
- Paying a nominal filing fee
- Attending the scheduled hearing
RERA aims to resolve complaints within 60 days. If unsatisfied, an appeal can be made to the Real Estate Appellate Tribunal (REAT).
Conclusion
RERA has brought much-needed accountability and openness to an industry that was previously beset by opacity and delays. Nevertheless, “RERA-registered” and “RERA approved” are not synonymous concepts. “RERA-approved” is frequently used in a marketing sense and may not have any formal support, even though RERA registration is a legally defined and required status.
The lesson for homebuyers is straightforward: don’t rely on promotional language or verbal guarantees. Make sure all legal paperwork is in place, cross-check on state portals, and insist on genuine RERA registration numbers.
In addition to providing legal protection, a registered project offers you comfort during one of your largest financial commitments.
FAQ
Is RERA approval mandatory for plots?
Yes, if the plotted development exceeds 500 sq. meters or 8 units, RERA registration is mandatory.
Is it good to buy RERA-approved projects?
Only buy RERA-registered projects, as “RERA approved” lacks formal recognition.
Can a project be RERA approved but not registered?
Yes, but such approval has no legal weight; only registered projects offer legal protection.
Where can I check if a project is RERA registered?
You can verify registration on the official RERA website of your respective state.