**What is TNRERA?** The Tamil Nadu Real Estate Regulatory Authority (TNRERA) was established under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016. It is the primary body overseeing real estate transactions, builder accountability, and buyer grievances in Tamil Nadu. In 2025 alone, TNRERA resolved 4,823 complaints with an average grievance resolution time of 67 days — down from 94 days in 2023. **Key Updates for 2026** - **Mandatory QR Code on Project Sites**: All RERA-registered projects must display a QR code linking to the TNRERA portal for instant verification by buyers - **Digital Booking Agreements**: Builders must upload signed agreements to the TNRERA portal within 30 days of signing - **Quarterly Progress Reports**: Developers are now required to submit photo-verified progress reports every quarter - **Escrow Enforcement**: TNRERA has tightened monitoring of the 70% escrow requirement, with random audits introduced in Q4 2025 **How to Verify a Project** Before paying any advance to a builder, verify the project on tnrera.in: 1. Visit tnrera.in → Registered Projects 2. Enter the project RERA number (format: TN/01/Building/XXXX/2025) 3. Check the registration validity date, approved unit count, and escrow bank details 4. Download the approved plan drawings and compare with what the builder is offering **Filing a Complaint** If a builder delays possession, misrepresents amenities, or fails to provide promised facilities, you can file a complaint at tnrera.in: - Online filing: tnrera.in → Complaints → New Complaint - Filing fee: ₹1,000 for individuals, ₹5,000 for associations - First hearing is typically scheduled within 45 days of filing - Appeals lie with the Tamil Nadu Real Estate Appellate Tribunal (TNREAT) **Common Buyer Mistakes to Avoid** - Paying more than 10% as advance before signing the Registered Sale Agreement - Not checking if the builder has obtained all approvals (CMDA, DTCP, Fire NOC) - Ignoring the carpet area vs super built-up area discrepancy - Not insisting on the Occupancy Certificate before taking possession **Penalty for Builders** TNRERA can impose penalties of up to 5% of the estimated project cost for false disclosure, and up to 10% for repeated violations. In cases of fraud, imprisonment of up to 3 years is possible under Section 65.