Short Answer

Yes, RERA applies to cooperative (co-op development) builders as well.

Detailed Explanation

Section 3 of the Gujarat RERA Act states that the Act applies to both promoters of real estate projects, which includes cooperative societies, and real estate agents. This means that any entity involved in the development of real estate, including cooperative builders, falls under the purview of RERA. In practice, this means that cooperative builders are required to register their projects with RERA, provide accurate project details, adhere to project timelines, and comply with other regulatory requirements.

For example, if a cooperative society is developing a housing project and fails to deliver the project on time, buyers can file a complaint with RERA for delay in possession. RERA will then investigate the matter, impose penalties on the cooperative society if necessary, and ensure that buyers' rights are protected. Similarly, if a cooperative builder engages in unfair practices or violates RERA regulations, buyers have the right to seek redressal through the RERA authority.

In real-world scenarios, RERA has been instrumental in regulating the real estate sector, including cooperative developments, by promoting transparency, accountability, and timely delivery of projects. The step-by-step process for filing a complaint against a cooperative builder under RERA involves submitting a detailed complaint with supporting documents to the RERA authority, attending hearings, and following up on the resolution of the complaint.

Overall, RERA's applicability to cooperative builders ensures that buyers in cooperative housing projects are safeguarded against delays, fraud, and other malpractices, thereby enhancing consumer protection in the real estate sector.

References

• Gujarat RERA Act and Rules: https://gujrera.gujarat.gov.in/