The Andhra Pradesh Real Estate Regulatory Authority (AP RERA) has issued a strict directive to all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across the State: no Building Occupancy Certificate (OC) should be granted to any private builder unless prior permission from AP RERA has been obtained.
This significant step aims to strengthen compliance, transparency, and consumer protection in the real estate sector.
Why the Directive Was Issued
According to AP RERA Chairperson A. Siva Reddy, nearly 25% of builders in Andhra Pradesh are still operating without registering with the Authority.
Reddy emphasised that the Authority is determined to ensure quality living spaces, and real estate developers must strictly follow RERA rules and procedures before marketing, selling, or handing over projects.
Mandatory RERA Approval Before Occupancy Certificates
ULBs have now been instructed that:
• No Occupancy Certificate (OC) shall be issued to any private project without verifying AP RERA’s prior approval.
• This rule applies particularly to buildings measuring more than 500 sq m or more than eight units, both of which legally fall under mandatory RERA registration.
• Builders bypassing registration or marketing unapproved projects will face strict action.
Appeal to Homebuyers and Developers
Reddy urged real estate agents and developers to register online at the official portal www.rera.ap.gov.in before taking up any sales or promotional activities.
He also warned buyers:
• Do not purchase homes from non-registered builders
• Verify the project details on the RERA portal
• Ensure the builder has obtained all approvals before investing
He stressed that timely clearances are being issued to compliant developers who upload the required documents correctly.
From 2025 to 2026, AP RERA will conduct awareness programmes across all districts, beginning in Tirupati, to educate stakeholders.
Action Against Fraud and Misrepresentation
The Chairperson cautioned that fraudulent promises, misleading advertisements, or non-compliance with RERA guidelines will attract legal consequences.
The move is aimed at preventing unregulated constructions and protecting citizens from risky or unauthorised developments.
Progress Report of AP RERA (2025 Figures)
AP RERA Director K. Naga Sundari shared key updates:
• 1,111 applications were received between January 2025 and now
• 731 applications have been approved
• 285 consumer complaints resolved
These numbers reflect RERA’s increasing enforcement capacity and commitment to addressing homebuyer grievances.
Impact of the New Directive
This order will transform regulatory oversight in Andhra Pradesh by:
• Eliminating unauthorised occupancy
• Promoting full transparency in project approvals
• Ensuring homebuyer safety
• Preventing incomplete or illegal projects from obtaining OCs
• Strengthening RERA’s position as the central authority for real estate compliance
Builders must now ensure complete adherence to RERA guidelines before seeking occupancy permissions, ensuring safer and more reliable housing delivery for citizens.
