What Section 14 of the RERA Act Means for Homebuyers and Developers

Buying a home is one of life’s most significant milestones. It is not just about four walls; it is about trust, security, and value for money. To protect these aspects, the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA) includes several provisions for homebuyers. One such vital provision is Section 14 of the RERA Act, which ensures developers deliver what they promise and follow approved plans.

This article explores Section 14 of RERA Act, highlighting its importance, features, and how it secures homebuyers' interests.

What is Section 14 of the RERA Act?

Section 14 of the RERA Act is focused on adherence to sanctioned plans and project specifications. It ensures that developers do not alter the approved layout, design, or any specifications without the consent of the buyers.

The section also covers:

• Structural integrity: Developers must deliver a structurally sound building.
• Warranty for defects: Buyers can report any structural defects or poor workmanship within five years of possession. The developer must fix these issues at no extra cost.

Section 14 is designed to uphold quality standards, prevent unauthorised changes, and protect buyers from subpar construction.

Why is Section 14 important?

Buying a property involves significant financial and emotional investment. Section 14 ensures that developers respect this by adhering to approved plans and delivering quality homes. Here is why this section is crucial:

• Prevents unauthorised changes: Developers cannot alter the project design or specifications without the buyers’ consent, ensuring they get what they were promised.
• Ensures structural safety: Section 14 mandates developers to deliver homes that meet safety and structural standards, giving buyers peace of mind.
• Warranty against defects: The five-year defect liability period protects buyers from unexpected repair costs due to poor construction or materials.
• Accountability: This section holds developers accountable for the promises made during the sale, ensuring fair practices in real estate transactions.

Key features of Section 14 of the RERA Act

• Adherence to approved plans: Developers must stick to the approved layout, design, and project specifications. Changes can only be made with the written consent of at least two thirds of the buyers.
• Five-year defect liability period: If structural defects, poor workmanship, or inferior materials are found within five years of possession, the developer must repair them at no extra cost to the buyer.
• Buyers’ consent for changes: Buyers’ consent is mandatory for major alterations in the project’s design or layout. This ensures transparency and protects buyers from unwanted changes.
• Legal recourse: If developers fail to meet these obligations, buyers can file a complaint with the RERA authority for resolution.

Benefits of Section 14 for homebuyers

Section 14 provides multiple advantages to homebuyers, ensuring they get what they pay for and protecting their rights throughout the process.

• Transparency: Buyers are informed about every change in the project, ensuring no hidden alterations.
• Quality assurance: The defect liability period holds developers accountable for the construction quality, saving buyers from additional repair costs.
• Financial security: Buyers are protected from costs associated with structural issues or unauthorised changes.
• Empowered buyers: By involving buyers in decisions regarding changes, Section 14 ensures their voice is heard in project development.

Consider Ramesh, who booked a flat in a high-rise project in Mumbai. After paying the initial instalments, he noticed changes in the layout and amenities promised in the brochure. Thanks to Section 14, Ramesh, and other buyers demanded explanations and filed a complaint with the RERA authority. The developer was instructed to adhere to the original plan or refund the buyers.

Such cases underline the importance of Section 14 in empowering homebuyers and ensuring their investments are safeguarded.

What actions can buyers take under Section 14?

If a developer violates Section 14, homebuyers can:

• File a complaint with RERA: Buyers can approach the RERA authority in their state to address violations.
• Seek compensation: RERA can direct developers to compensate buyers for any inconvenience caused due to non-compliance.
• Legal recourse: Buyers can also escalate the matter to the Appellate Tribunal if dissatisfied with the RERA authority’s decision.

These options ensure buyers are not left helpless in case of disputes.

Bajaj Housing Finance Home Loan: Your partner in homeownership

While Section 14 protects homebuyers from unauthorised changes and quality issues, securing the right financing is equally crucial. A reliable home loan helps turn your dream of homeownership into reality.

With Bajaj Housing Finance Home Loan, you can enjoy:

1. High loan amount: Secure a home loan of up to Rs. 15 crore* to bring your dream home to life.

2. Low interest rates: Enjoy interest rates starting 7.99%*  p.a., and EMIs as low as Rs. 722/lakh*.

3. Quick approval: Get approved within 48 Hours* of applying – sometimes even sooner.

4. Flexible repayment tenure: Choose a repayment term of up to 32 years for comfortable EMIs.

5. Simple application: Take advantage of doorstep document collection for a smooth process.

6. Balance transfer facility: Move your existing home loan and get a top-up loan with better terms.

Secure your dream home with a Bajaj Housing Finance Home Loan today.