RERA Compliance for Real Estate in West Bengal – Complete Guide for 2026

The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA) was implemented to protect homebuyers and regulate the real estate sector. In West Bengal, the West Bengal Real Estate Regulatory Authority (WB RERA) oversees compliance for all real estate projects in the state. At Vidhi Legal Services, we help builders, developers, and buyers understand and comply with RERA requirements.

What is WB RERA?

WB RERA is the regulatory authority established under the RERA Act for West Bengal. It is responsible for: (1) Registration of real estate projects and agents, (2) Protecting homebuyers' interests, (3) Ensuring timely project completion, (4) Adjudicating disputes between buyers and developers, (5) Promoting transparency in real estate transactions.

Projects Requiring RERA Registration

All residential and commercial real estate projects with: (1) Land area of 500 sq. meters or more, OR (2) 8 or more units/apartments, MUST register with WB RERA before advertising, marketing, or booking any units. Projects with smaller area are exempt but can voluntarily register.

RERA Registration Process for Builders

Step 1: Prepare Documentation

Gather project details including land documents, approvals from municipal authority, building plan, completion timeline, carpet area details, and promoter's details.

Step 2: Register on WB RERA Portal

Visit the WB RERA website, create an account, and submit the registration application with all required documents and fees.

Step 3: Project Scrutiny

The authority reviews the application, checks document completeness, and may seek clarifications. The registration must be granted or rejected within 30 days.

Step 4: Receive Registration Number

Once approved, the project receives a unique RERA registration number that must be displayed in all marketing materials and on the project site.

Quarterly Compliance Requirements

Registered projects must submit quarterly progress reports to WB RERA including: (1) Status of construction, (2) Number of units sold and remaining, (3) Financial details including funds collected and utilized, (4) Timeline adherence and anticipated completion date, (5) Any changes in project specifications.

Buyer Rights Under WB RERA

• Right to receive accurate project information (sanctioned plans, timelines, carpet area)
• Right to timely possession of the property
• Right to get compensation for delays (interest at SBI lending rate + 2%)
• Right to know project layout, common areas, and specifications
• Right to file complaints with the RERA authority
• Right to withdraw and get refund with interest if project is delayed

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Penalties under WB RERA include: (1) Failure to register projects: up to 10% of project cost, (2) Continuing non-compliance: up to 5% of project cost per day, (3) False information: imprisonment up to 3 years, (4) Non-compliance with orders: fines and imprisonment as determined by the authority.

How Vidhi Legal Services Can Help

At Vidhi Legal Services, we assist builders with RERA registration and quarterly compliance. We also help buyers verify RERA compliance of projects and file complaints if needed. We offer legal drafting and business registration services. Contact us today.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is RERA registration mandatory for all projects?

Yes, all projects with 500+ sq. meters of land OR 8+ units must register. Smaller projects are exempt but can voluntarily register.

2. How can I verify a project's RERA registration?

Visit the WB RERA website and search by project name, builder name, or registration number. All registered projects and their details are publicly listed.

3. What if a builder fails to register with RERA?

Selling or advertising an unregistered project is punishable with a penalty of up to 10% of the project cost. Buyers should only invest in RERA-registered projects.

4. Can a buyer file a complaint with WB RERA?

Yes, buyers can file complaints regarding delayed possession, misleading advertisements, deviations from approved plans, or refund issues.

5. What is the refund policy if the project is delayed?

The buyer can withdraw from the project and get a full refund with interest at the SBI lending rate + 2% if the project is delayed beyond the committed completion date.