What RERA is meant to protect
RERA — the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act — is a central law, put into practice by a regulatory authority in each state. It was introduced to bring more transparency and accountability to real estate, especially for buyers of under-construction homes who historically had little protection against delays and misleading promises.
Broadly, RERA is meant to require covered projects to be registered before they are marketed, to make key project information public, to hold promoters to what they commit on things like timelines and specifications, and to give buyers a defined forum to raise complaints. Many states also expect a portion of buyer money to be handled more carefully so it is used for the project it was collected for.
The exact protections, rules and processes are set by each state's RERA authority and do change over time. Treat the points here as the general idea and confirm the current rules on your own state's RERA portal or with a property lawyer.
How to check a project and promoter are registered
Most states run an official RERA website where registered projects and registered agents are listed. As a buyer, the practical step is to search that portal for the specific project and the promoter or developer, rather than relying on a brochure or a salesperson's word.
When a project is registered, the listing typically carries a registration number and project details. It is worth cross-checking that the number on any advertisement or agreement matches what the official portal shows, and that the project name, promoter and location line up. Registered agents (brokers) are often listed separately.
Registration requirements commonly apply to larger projects — broadly, projects above a certain size or number of units, with the threshold and exemptions varying by state — so some very small projects may not appear. If you cannot find a project you expected to be registered, do not assume; ask the promoter for the registration number and verify it yourself on the state portal, or check with a property lawyer.
Why it matters most for under-construction homes
When you buy a ready, completed home you can largely see what you are getting. When you buy under-construction, you are paying today for something delivered later — which is exactly where delays, design changes and disputes tend to appear. RERA is aimed squarely at that gap.
A registered project generally means the basic information is on public record and there is a defined authority to approach if something goes wrong, which is a stronger position than an informal promise. It does not, by itself, guarantee timely delivery or remove all risk — it is a layer of protection and transparency, not a warranty.
So treat RERA registration as one important check among several. Alongside it, buyers commonly review the title and approvals, the sanctioned plan, and the agreement terms, ideally with a property lawyer. When anything is unclear, verify on the official state RERA portal and take professional legal advice before you commit money.
Frequently asked
Does RERA guarantee my home will be delivered on time?
How do I check if a project is RERA-registered?
Do all projects have to be registered under RERA?
Build with people you can trust
AECORD connects you with verified architects, engineers, contractors and material sellers across India — profiles checked, reviews real, contact in one place.