Can the builder deduct anything from my refund?

Not under Section 18. If you withdraw because the promoter failed to complete or hand over possession on time, you are entitled to the entire amount paid, with interest.

What if the builder ignores the RERA order?

The amount is recoverable as arrears of land revenue under Section 40 of the RERA Act.

Complaint Generator › RERA

Builder refund — withdraw from the project

Withdrawing from a stalled or endlessly delayed project and claiming a full refund with interest under Section 18 of the RERA Act, 2016.

RERA route. File on your state RERA portal — not on e-Jagriti. The portal is picked by where the property is. State portals, forms & fees →

The project is stalled or the delay is so long that you want out. Under Section 18 of the RERA Act you can withdraw and get your full payment back with interest.

What you can get

Full refund of everything you paid, with interest (typically SBI MCLR + 2% per year). Compensation, if claimed, is decided by the Adjudicating Officer.

Steps

Confirm the project is RERA-registered on your state portal.
Send the builder a written demand for a refund, citing the delay and Section 18, and keep proof of delivery.
File with the RERA Authority on your state portal (Form M in most states; Form A in Maharashtra). Fee ₹1,000 in most states, ₹5,000 in Maharashtra.
If you also want compensation for your loss (beyond interest), file with the Adjudicating Officer (Form N, usually ₹5,000).
Attend the hearing with your payment records. The Authority's disposal target is 60 days.
If the builder does not comply with the order, it is recoverable as arrears of land revenue (Section 40).

Documents to prepare

Agreement for sale
All payment receipts and bank statements
Allotment letter and demand letters
Written refund demand to the builder with proof of delivery
Project status from the RERA portal

Frequently asked questions

Can the builder deduct anything from my refund?: Not under Section 18. If you withdraw because the promoter failed to complete or hand over possession on time, you are entitled to the entire amount paid, with interest.
What if the builder ignores the RERA order?: The amount is recoverable as arrears of land revenue under Section 40 of the RERA Act.

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Sources: iPleaders — RERA complaint procedure 2026, Neeraj Associates — UP RERA complaint guide, righttoinformation.wiki — RERA delayed-possession guide, Business Standard — how to file a RERA complaint