RERA Project Timeline Extensions: How to Apply and Maximize Your Chances of Approval

In the fast-moving real estate industry, project delays are a common occurrence as a result of numerous factors, ranging from financial constraints and regulatory impediments to unforeseen circumstances like weather conditions. 

The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, of 2016, also known as RERA, was legislation to bring greater transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the real estate sector. As RERA is meant for the protection of home buyers, it also acknowledges that delays can occur by allowing developers to apply for an RERA project timeline extension.

In this blog, we will take you through the process of how to apply for a RERA project timeline extension and share expert tips on how you can increase your chances of getting your extension approved. As a developer, no matter where you are in Mumbai or any other place, it is important to know what steps to take and what legal requirements to follow to maintain your project’s credibility and avoid penalties.

Understand the RERA Regulations on Project Delays

If you are looking to apply for a project timeline extension, then it is important to first understand the RERA rules and guidelines related to delays. According to RERA, developers can seek an extension only if the delay is out of their control. The builder also has to notify RERA of the delay and furnish a reasonable explanation for the extension request.

However, the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA), the body that regulates RERA registration in Mumbai, has clearly stated what developers should do. The developers also have to keep open communication with the buyers in case of any delays.

Gather Required Documentation

The next step in the RERA project timeline extension is to collect all the documents that prove your case. If you don’t have proper evidence, your application is likely to be rejected. The required documents may include:

Project Details: A little bit about the project, including the completion date when it was first brought online and the current state.

Reasons for Delay: Explanation of why approval issues have caused the delay.

Supporting Evidence: Delays such as communications from regulatory authorities, invoices or receipts for materials that were delayed, contracts with vendors or contractors, etc.

Revised Timeline: A new realistic timeline for project completion. You have to prove that the request to extend is based on a real need for more time and not a delay for no reason.

File the Application on the MahaRERA Portal

After all the required documents are in place, you then file your extension request on the MahaRERA portal. Developers must submit the application online via the MahaRERA website.

The process generally involves filling out an online form that includes:

• Your rera registration number.

• Current status and project details.

• Why this extension is needed in detail.

• Material supply delays (emails from government agencies, etc.) supporting documents.

To avoid rejection of your application, it’s important to make sure that all the fields are filled correctly and all documents are uploaded in the right format.

Communicate with Homebuyers

When the application is submitted, however, developers have to notify homebuyers of the delay and the estimated new completion date. Developers are required by RERA to inform buyers of project timelines and delays. It accomplishes two things: it keeps the buyers informed and it prevents any potential legal disputes.

So it is essential to have a clear communication strategy. Email, message, or letter all buyers to let them know of the new timeline and notify them.

RERA Review and Approval

Your extension request will be reviewed after submission by the MahaRERA authorities. The documents and reasons given for the delay are scrutinised by RERA authorities. Sometimes they may need more clarification or more evidence before they make a final decision.

The RERA authorities will grant the RERA project timeline extension if your request is deemed valid.