Telangana RERA Imposes ₹10.6 Lakh Fine on Hyderabad Developer for Plan Deviations

The Telangana Real Estate Regulatory Authority (TG-RERA) has imposed a fine of ₹10.6 lakh on a construction firm for violating approved project plans at an apartment complex in Nizampet, Hyderabad. The penalty was issued in response to complaints from the apartment flat owners' cooperative maintenance society, which alleged that the developer altered the project’s layout and restricted access to promised amenities.

The society, representing homeowners, accused the developer of deviating from the originally approved plan by erecting a boundary wall that prevented residents from accessing common facilities. According to the complaint, the project was marketed with the assurance of a 60,000 sq. ft. clubhouse exclusively for residents. This facility was to include a supermarket, a local commercial area, guest rooms, a function hall, a gym, and a yoga center. However, the society alleged that the developer separated the clubhouse with a compound wall, restricting access and modifying the intended usage of the space.

Additionally, the developer allegedly removed landscaped greenery in front of the amenities block and was attempting to sell portions of the clubhouse to third parties. These actions, the residents claimed, contradicted the project details as advertised at the time of purchase and the permissions granted by the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA).

After reviewing the case, TG-RERA ruled in favor of the residents and directed the developer to pay the penalty within 30 days to the TG-RERA Fund. The regulatory authority also issued the following orders:

Removal of the Boundary Wall: The developer must demolish the wall restricting access and restore the society members’ exclusive use of the clubhouse.

Adherence to Approved Plan: The construction must strictly follow the original plan sanctioned by HMDA.

Implementation of Renewable Energy Systems: The developer must install solar lighting and a solar water heating system, as mandated for high-rise buildings under government orders.

TG-RERA clarified that while the developer could collect additional funds from allottees for completing pending work, all modifications must align with the approved plan.

This case highlights the growing scrutiny on real estate developers in Telangana and the role of RERA in enforcing compliance. Such deviations from approved plans have been a recurring issue in residential projects, leading to conflicts between developers and homeowners. Regulatory intervention, such as the one seen in this case, is intended to ensure that homebuyers receive the facilities and amenities promised at the time of purchase.

While TG-RERA’s orders are legally binding, enforcement remains a challenge. The effectiveness of the penalty and corrective measures will depend on the willingness of the developer to comply and the regulatory body’s follow-up actions.

Image source- telangana.gov.in