RERA in Delhi explained: this guide covers what it means, who it applies to, the step-by-step process, documents required, fees, due dates and penalties in India — so you can stay compliant with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.
RERA in Delhi operates under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 and the Delhi RERA Rules. Promoters of projects over 500 sq. m or eight units, and all agents, must register with the Delhi Real Estate Regulatory Authority before marketing or selling.
Overview
Real estate in the National Capital Territory of Delhi is governed by the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, as operationalised through the Delhi Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Rules. Because Delhi is largely built up, new registrable projects are fewer than in surrounding Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, but the registration, escrow and disclosure discipline of RERA applies fully to qualifying projects within the NCT.
Applicable Law & Authority
The RERA Act, 2016 provides the framework, and for the NCT the Central Government is the appropriate government for notifying rules. The Delhi Real Estate Regulatory Authority registers projects and agents and publishes disclosures on its portal. Appeals lie to the designated Real Estate Appellate Tribunal for Delhi.
Who Must Register
A promoter must register a project where the developable land exceeds 500 square metres or there are more than eight apartments, counting all phases; each phase registers separately. Projects that received a completion certificate before the Act, and repair/renovation without fresh marketing, are exempt. Agents facilitating registered projects register separately.
Fees, Thresholds and Timelines (Indicative)
| Item | Indicative Position |
|---|---|
| Project threshold | Land > 500 sq. m or > 8 apartments |
| Registration fee | Per sq. m of land (residential/commercial differ) — verify current rate |
| Agent fee | Fixed fee (individual/entity) — verify current rate |
| Escrow requirement | 70% of allottee receipts in a separate account |
| Decision timeline | About 30 days; deemed registration if no response |
Figures are indicative. Per-square-metre fee slabs and agent fees are prescribed by the Delhi RERA Rules and revised from time to time — verify current amounts on the official Delhi RERA portal.
Process & Documents
The promoter applies online and uploads: PAN and identity of promoter/directors; authenticated land title or valid development agreement; sanctioned plan, layout, specifications and DDA/municipal approvals as applicable; proforma allotment letter and agreement for sale; and an affidavit-backed declaration on the 70% escrow, completion timeline and defect liability. Agents submit PAN, identity/address proof and entity documents.
Ongoing Compliance
Registered promoters file quarterly progress reports, keep project status current, operate the 70% designated account with professional certification per withdrawal, and remedy structural or workmanship defects reported within five years. Material changes to the sanctioned plan require two-thirds allottee consent.
Due Dates, Penalties and Redress
Non-registration can attract a penalty of up to 10% of the estimated project cost, escalating to imprisonment on continued default; misleading advertising and fund diversion are separately penalised. Allottees may file complaints on the portal; the Authority adjudicates and the Adjudicating Officer awards compensation, with appeals to the Appellate Tribunal.