Property Rules and Regulations.

🏡 Property Rules and Regulations for Buying Flats in Mumbai (MahaRERA Guide)

Buying a flat in Mumbai is a dream for many homebuyers. To protect the interests of buyers and ensure transparency in real estate transactions, the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) has laid down clear rules and guidelines for all residential and commercial projects in the state.

Whether you are buying a 1 BHK affordable apartment or investing in a luxury flat, knowing the legal requirements and RERA rules can save you from delays, fraud, or hidden costs.

📜 1. RERA Registration Is Mandatory for All Projects

All new residential projects in Mumbai with more than 8 units or 500 sq. m. of area must be registered under MahaRERA.
Buyers should always verify the RERA registration number on the official MahaRERA website (https://maharera.mahaonline.gov.in) before making any payment.

Why this matters:

  • Ensures the project has all necessary approvals

  • Protects buyers if there is a delay or non-completion

  • Gives legal rights under RERA in case of dispute

🧾 2. Builder Cannot Take More than 10% Advance Without Agreement

Under RERA, the developer cannot collect more than 10% of the flat cost as a booking amount without entering into a registered agreement for sale.
This rule helps prevent builders from collecting large advances and then delaying or changing terms later.

🏢 3. Completion Timeline Must Be Clearly Mentioned

Builders must clearly declare the possession date in the RERA filing. If they fail to deliver the flat on time, the buyer is entitled to compensation or a full refund along with interest.

This is one of the strongest protections under RERA for Mumbai homebuyers.

🧾 4. Full Project Details Must Be Publicly Available

On the MahaRERA portal, buyers can view:

  • Project layout and floor plans

  • Construction status and timeline

  • Approvals and clearances

  • Legal title of the land

  • Builder’s track record

This ensures complete transparency and informed decision-making.

📉 5. OC (Occupation Certificate) and CC (Completion Certificate)

Before taking possession, the builder must provide the Occupation Certificate (OC) and Completion Certificate (CC) from the local municipal authorities.
Without these, buyers can face legal or utility connection issues later.

🏘️ 6. Formation of Housing Society / RWA

Once the majority of flats are sold and handed over, the developer is responsible for helping form a housing society or association.
This body manages common areas, maintenance, and legal matters related to the building.

💸 7. Maintenance Charges Must Be Clearly Defined

The builder must clearly mention all maintenance charges in the agreement, including:

  • Common area maintenance

  • Water and electricity

  • Security and parking

  • Amenities usage

No hidden charges can be added later without buyer consent.

📝 8. Carpet Area vs. Built-up Area

RERA has standardized the way flat size is declared. Builders must sell only on carpet area (the usable area inside the walls).
This prevents overcharging and ensures clarity in pricing.

🏠 9. Affordable Housing Benefits

For buyers purchasing affordable housing in Mumbai:

  • PMAY (Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana) subsidies may apply

  • Lower GST rates on affordable homes

  • Special schemes for first-time buyers

⚖️ 10. Legal Verification and Due Diligence

Before finalizing the purchase:

  • Verify RERA registration number

  • Check legal title of the property

  • Read the sale agreement carefully

  • Consult a legal expert if needed

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