First-Time Buyer’s Guide to RERA in Dombivli — 7 Things You Must Check

Why RERA Verification Matters More Than Ever

Maharashtra’s RERA (MahaRERA) portal at maharera.mahaonline.gov.in is the single most reliable source of truth about any under-construction property project in the state. It contains legal possession commitments, project progress reports, builder financial details, and complaint history. Yet most first-time buyers never visit the portal.

Here are the 7 checks we recommend for every Dombivli property purchase — in order of importance.

Check 1: Verify the RERA Registration Number

Every builder in Maharashtra is legally required to register their project with MahaRERA before selling any units. The RERA number typically looks like P51700XXXXXX (for Thane/KDMC projects) or P51800XXXXXX (for Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation jurisdiction). Go to maharera.mahaonline.gov.in → Search Projects → Enter the RERA number provided by the builder. If it doesn’t appear, do not book.

Check 2: Confirm the Registered Possession Date

The RERA-registered possession date is legally binding. Compare it to what the builder is telling you verbally. If there’s a discrepancy, or if the registered date has already been revised multiple times, treat this as a red flag and ask for a written explanation.

Check 3: Check Quarterly Progress Reports

Builders are required to file quarterly progress reports with MahaRERA. Look at the last 4 reports — is construction progressing as promised? Are milestones being met? A project that is consistently missing quarterly targets is a project at risk of delays.

Check 4: Verify the Carpet Area, Not Built-up or Super Built-up

Under RERA, all pricing must be on carpet area (actual useable floor space). The RERA certificate will state the exact carpet area for your unit type. Cross-check this against what the builder is showing you in the brochure. Common discrepancy: brochures show “super built-up” area which can be 20–30% larger than carpet area.

Check 5: Look at the Builder’s Complaint History

MahaRERA’s portal shows complaint cases filed against the builder. A few complaints on a large project are normal — but a pattern of complaints about possession delays, carpet area discrepancies, or financial fraud is a serious warning. Check both the project-specific complaints and the builder’s overall complaint history.

Check 6: Confirm the Land Title and Encumbrance

MahaRERA requires builders to declare the land ownership status. Ensure the land title is clear and that there are no encumbrances, mortgages, or legal disputes on the land. Your lawyer should verify this independently — it’s worth the ₹5,000–10,000 legal fee.

Check 7: Verify the Approved Floor Plans Match What You’re Being Shown

The approved floor plans filed with MahaRERA are the legally approved plans. Compare these to the floor plans in the builder’s brochure. Discrepancies — particularly in the layout of rooms, balconies, or common areas — can indicate unapproved modifications.

Quick RERA Checklist

Before paying any booking amount, confirm: ☐ RERA number verified on maharera.mahaonline.gov.in ☐ Possession date noted ☐ Last 4 quarterly reports reviewed ☐ Carpet area matches brochure ☐ No major complaint patterns ☐ Land title verified by lawyer ☐ Floor plans cross-checked.

Contact indombivili.com — our team can guide you through RERA verification for any Dombivli project free of charge.