What is an adjudicating officer under RERA?

An adjudicating officer under RERA is a designated authority typically an officer of the state government with the rank of Additional Secretary or above appointed by the state government to adjudicate complaints regarding compensation claims arising from failures by developers or agents under the Real Estate Act.

Jurisdiction of the Adjudicating Officer

• Adjudicate claims for compensation from buyers for losses due to developer violations.
• Determine compensation for false information, delay, and breach of contract.
• Levy fines on developers and agents for contraventions of the Act.

Adjudicating Officer vs. RERA Authority

• RERA Authority: Handles complaints about violations of the Act project delays, non-registration, escrow violations.
• Adjudicating Officer: Specifically handles compensation claims quantum of financial loss suffered by the buyer.

The Adjudicating Officer is the compensation arm of the RERA framework ensuring that financial losses suffered by buyers due to developer violations are quantified and made recoverable. Buyers seeking monetary compensation should file before the Adjudicating Officer, while those seeking compliance directions should approach the RERA Authority.