Pune — In a bold move to protect homebuyers and curb fraudulent practices in the real estate sector, the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) has launched a comprehensive statewide verification of occupancy certificates (OCs) submitted by developers. The initiative targets 2,600 OCs uploaded on MahaRERA’s portal and aims to ensure their authenticity through coordination with local planning authorities.
Why the Crackdown?
This effort comes in the wake of the 2022 Kalyan-Dombivli scam, where forged documents were used to construct 65 illegal buildings, affecting more than 6,500 buyers. The scandal exposed systemic vulnerabilities in the verification of approvals and occupancy statuses. MahaRERA also uncovered instances of developers misleading buyers by uploading partial OCs or unverified certificates, prompting immediate regulatory action.
How the Verification Process Works
Under the new system, developers must submit OCs through MahaRERA’s platform, which then routes them to the relevant municipal or planning authorities for authentication. Authorities are expected to confirm or flag discrepancies within a 10-day window. If no response is received within this timeframe, the OC is temporarily treated as valid, although the respective authority remains accountable for any inaccuracies found later.
To enhance efficiency, MahaRERA is working on integrating its portal with the IT systems of local bodies. Currently, only Mumbai’s civic body has completed this integration. The goal is to streamline document verification, reduce delays, and minimize opportunities for fraud.
Verification Status and Early Findings
Out of the 2,600 OCs submitted, only 136 have been officially verified by local authorities so far. The remainder are still under review or awaiting confirmation. MahaRERA officials are also identifying and flagging suspicious submissions, ensuring heightened scrutiny for potentially fraudulent projects.
Implications for Homebuyers
This verification drive is especially significant for homebuyers who often receive incomplete or incorrect information during property purchases. Under RERA guidelines, developers are required to submit valid commencement and occupancy certificates before accessing funds from escrow accounts. However, reports suggest that OCs are often unavailable or misleading, leading to confusion and risk for buyers.
The current initiative ensures that only developers with verified certifications can proceed with fund withdrawals and project completion. It also improves transparency and accountability across the real estate ecosystem.
Official Statement
MahaRERA representatives emphasized that buyers must be provided with verified project documents, including commencement and occupancy certificates, before making any investment. The authority reiterated its commitment to safeguarding consumer interests and raising the standards of real estate governance in Maharashtra.
The Road Ahead
MahaRERA plans to expand digital integration across more municipalities and speed up the verification process. With more robust checks and a digital trail, the authority aims to dismantle long-standing loopholes and build greater trust in the real estate sector.
This landmark initiative marks a critical step in cleaning up Maharashtra’s property market and empowering buyers with verified, trustworthy information.
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