Real Estate & RERA Lawyers in Kerala
The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA) has transformed the property market in Kerala by introducing greater accountability, transparency, and buyer protection. Developers, associations, and homebuyers are now required to comply with strict documentation and disclosure requirements before launching or investing in real estate projects.
In Kochi and across Kerala, legal clarity in property transactions and RERA compliance ensures smoother project execution, fewer disputes, and enforceable contracts.
RERA Compliance for Developers
Developers must ensure full compliance before launching or advertising a project.
Key Requirements:
- Registration of projects with the Kerala Real Estate Regulatory Authority
- Disclosure of project details, approvals, and timelines
- Maintenance of escrow accounts for funds received from buyers
- Adherence to model builder–buyer agreements
- Regular reporting of project progress to RERA
Failure to comply may attract penalties, cancellation of registration, or litigation by buyers.
Rights of Homebuyers under RERA
RERA gives homebuyers stronger rights and remedies.
- Right to timely possession of property
- Refunds or compensation for project delays
- Clear builder–buyer agreements with enforceable clauses
- Protection from misrepresentation in advertisements
- Access to information about project approvals and progress
These protections ensure that buyers in Kerala are not left vulnerable to developer defaults or delays.
Legal Support for Associations
Resident welfare associations and apartment owners’ associations require legal assistance for:
- Registration under the Kerala Apartment Ownership Act
- Drafting and reviewing association by-laws
- Resolving disputes with developers or residents
- Compliance with maintenance and handover obligations
Real Estate Transaction Support
Beyond RERA, every property transaction in Kerala requires robust documentation and verification. Services include:
- Drafting and reviewing sale deeds and agreements to sell
- Lease, rental, and commercial property agreements
- Mortgage and financing documentation
- Title due diligence and encumbrance checks
Common Challenges in Real Estate Matters
- Delayed possession or project abandonment
- Conflicting claims on project land or approvals
- Non-compliance with escrow requirements
- Hidden encumbrances discovered after purchase
- Litigation with associations or regulatory authorities
FAQs – Real Estate & RERA in Kerala
Q1. Is RERA registration mandatory for all projects in Kerala?
Yes. Any real estate project exceeding prescribed limits in land size or number of units must be registered with Kerala RERA.
Q2. Can homebuyers file complaints directly with RERA?
Yes. Buyers may file complaints with the Kerala Real Estate Regulatory Authority for delays, misrepresentation, or non-compliance.
Q3. What are the penalties for developers under RERA?
Penalties include fines, cancellation of project registration, and liability to compensate buyers for losses caused by non-compliance.
Q4. Do commercial property projects also come under RERA?
Yes. RERA applies to both residential and commercial projects, subject to threshold limits.
Closing Note
RERA has brought accountability to Kerala’s real estate sector. By ensuring compliance, transparency, and enforceable documentation, property transactions become more secure for developers, associations, and homebuyers alike.