OFFENCES, PENALTIES & ADJUDICATION UNDER RERA
1. Punishment for Non-Registration (Section 3)
- Penalty: Up to 10% of the estimated cost of the real estate project as determined by the Authority.
- Further Punishment: If the promoter continues the violation, punishment may include imprisonment up to 3 years or an additional fine up to 10% of the project cost, or both.
2. Penalty for False Information (Section 4)
- If a promoter provides false information or contravenes Section 4, they shall be liable for a penalty of up to 5% of the estimated project cost.
3. Penalty for Contravention of Other Provisions (Section 61)
- For violations other than Section 3 & 4, the penalty can be up to 5% of the project cost as determined by the Authority.
4. Non-Compliance by Real Estate Agents (Sections 9 & 10)
- Daily Penalty: ₹10,000 per day for continued non-compliance.
- Cumulative Penalty: Can extend up to 5% of the cost of the property involved in the transaction.
5. Failure to Comply with Authority Orders (Section 63 & 65)
- For Promoters & Agents: A penalty of up to 5% of the project cost for non-compliance with Authority directives.
- For Allottees (Section 67): A penalty up to 5% of the property cost for failure to comply.
6. Failure to Comply with Appellate Tribunal Orders (Sections 64, 66 & 68)
- Promoters: Imprisonment up to 3 years or daily fines up to 10% of the project cost.
- Real Estate Agents: Imprisonment up to 1 year or fines up to 10% of the project cost.
- Allottees: Imprisonment up to 1 year or fines up to 10% of the property cost.
7. Offences by Companies (Section 69)
- If an offence is committed by a company, persons responsible (Directors, Managers, Officers) are deemed guilty unless they prove lack of knowledge or due diligence.
- If an offence is committed with consent or negligence of a director/manager, they are also deemed guilty.
8. Compounding of Offences (Section 70)
- Certain punishments (excluding imprisonment) may be compounded by the court with prescribed payment, not exceeding the maximum fine applicable.
9. Power to Adjudicate (Section 71)
- Adjudicating Officer: A judicial officer (District Judge) appointed to adjudicate compensation cases under Sections 12, 14, 18, & 19.
- Decision Timeline: Cases should be resolved within 60 days; delays must be justified in writing.
- Inquiry Powers: Can summon witnesses and demand documents.
10. Factors Considered for Compensation (Section 72)
- Unfair gains from default (where quantifiable).
- Loss incurred due to default.
- Repetitive nature of violations.
- Other factors ensuring fair justice.