The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA) revolutionized India’s property market by demanding greater transparency and accountability from builders.
In Maharashtra, this law is enforced through the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) — one of the most efficient RERA authorities in India.

For developers and builders in Mumbai and across Maharashtra, RERA registration is mandatory before marketing, selling, or advertising any real-estate project.
Failure to comply can result in heavy penalties, loss of reputation, and legal action.

In this article, Advocate Malini Jain, a property and RERA-compliance lawyer, explains the complete RERA registration process, legal documentation, and key obligations for builders.

Why RERA Registration Is Mandatory for Builders

According to Section 3 of the RERA Act, no builder or promoter can advertise, book, or sell any property without first registering the project with the state RERA authority.

Projects that must be registered include:

  • Residential or commercial projects over 500 sq. m. or 8 units.

  • Ongoing projects without a completion certificate.

  • Real-estate agents involved in property sales or marketing.

Benefits of RERA Registration for Builders

  • Builds credibility and buyer trust.

  • Ensures financial discipline and smoother fund flow.

  • Reduces disputes through transparency.

  • Improves market visibility on the official MahaRERA portal.

Step-by-Step Process for RERA Registration in Maharashtra

Step 1: Visit the MahaRERA Website

Go to https://maharera.mahaonline.gov.in and click on “New Registration.”
Choose whether you’re registering as a Promoter (Builder/Developer) or Real Estate Agent.

Step 2: Create a Login and Fill the Form

After creating an account, fill out the Project Registration Form with details such as:

  • Name and type of project (residential/commercial/mixed).

  • Project location and land details.

  • Estimated cost and funding plan.

  • Completion timeline.

  • Carpet area and number of units.

  • Details of contractors, architects, and structural engineers.

Accuracy is essential — false information can lead to rejection or penalty.

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

You’ll need to upload:

  • Proof of land ownership or development rights.

  • Approved layout and building plans.

  • Commencement certificate.

  • PAN Card of promoter/company.

  • Encumbrance certificate or title report.

  • Project’s bank account details (70% of funds to be kept here).

  • Past project details, if any.

All documents should be clear, current, and compliant with MahaRERA guidelines.

Step 4: Pay the Registration Fee

The registration fee depends on the project type and size (calculated per sq. meter).
Payment can be made online via debit/credit card, net banking, or NEFT.

Step 5: Submit Application and Await Approval

Once submitted, the application is reviewed by MahaRERA.
If approved, you’ll receive a unique registration number, which must appear in all advertisements, brochures, and marketing material.

If the authority finds discrepancies, it may request clarification or additional documents.

Post-Registration Obligations for Builders

Once registered, builders must adhere to strict compliance standards:

  1. Maintain a Separate Bank Account
    70 % of all buyer payments must be deposited in a dedicated account for construction and land costs.

  2. Quarterly Progress Updates
    Upload progress reports, photographs, and approvals every quarter on the MahaRERA website.

  3. Adherence to Timelines
    Complete and deliver the project as promised — delays can invite penalties or compensation orders.

  4. Transparency in Advertising
    Always mention the RERA registration number and accurate project details.

  5. Respond to Buyer Complaints Promptly
    Address queries and grievances before they escalate into formal complaints.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to register or misrepresentation can lead to:

  • Fine up to 10 % of the project cost.

  • Imprisonment up to 3 years for continued violation.

  • Cancellation of project registration by MahaRERA.

  • Blacklist on the MahaRERA portal, damaging reputation and sales.

How Advocate Malini Jain Assists Builders and Developers

RERA compliance can be complex and document-heavy.
Advocate Malini Jain provides complete legal support to builders, including:

  • Preparing and verifying RERA registration applications.

  • Drafting builder-buyer agreements compliant with RERA.

  • Advising on financial and project-timeline disclosures.

  • Representing builders before MahaRERA and the Appellate Tribunal.

  • Ensuring ongoing compliance to avoid penalties or disputes.

With offices in Delhi and Mumbai, she helps developers navigate both regulatory and legal aspects of RERA seamlessly.

For every builder or promoter in Mumbai and Maharashtra, RERA registration is not just a legal formality — it’s a mark of credibility and trust.
By understanding the process, maintaining transparency, and seeking expert legal guidance, developers can operate confidently under MahaRERA’s framework.

If you’re a developer or real-estate professional looking to register your project or ensure RERA compliance, reach out to Advocate Malini Jain for reliable and practical legal assistance.