APRERA Tightens Rules to Protect Homebuyers

In a move aimed at tightening regulatory oversight in the construction sector, the Andhra Pradesh Real Estate Regulatory Authority (APRERA) has directed all urban local bodies across the State not to issue Building Occupancy Certificates (OCs) to private builders unless they obtain prior approval from the Authority.

Speaking to The Coastal Times after a press conference from Amaravati on Monday, APRERA Chairperson A. Siva Reddy said nearly 25 per cent of developers in Andhra Pradesh are yet to complete mandatory registration with the Authority. He said this gap poses a risk to homebuyers, as unregistered builders often bypass legal safeguards and quality norms.

Reddy explained that APRERA was established to protect consumers by ensuring transparency, accountability, and fair practices in the real estate sector. He said the Authority is focused on ensuring that buyers receive legally compliant and structurally sound living spaces.

He appealed to builders and real estate agents to register online at the official portal before commencing sales or marketing activities. According to him, approvals are being issued promptly once required documents are submitted. However, he cautioned that developers who make unrealistic or misleading promises to homebuyers will face strict action under the law.

To increase compliance, the Authority will launch a Statewide awareness campaign on regulatory requirements. The programme will run from December 2025 to December 2026 and will begin in Tirupati before covering all districts. Officials will engage with builders, consumers and local bodies to highlight the importance of registration and adherence to guidelines.

Reddy urged citizens to verify whether builders are registered with APRERA before investing in property. He reminded that any building larger than 500 square metres or containing more than eight residential units cannot proceed without regulatory clearance.

APRERA Director K. Naga Sundari said there has been steady progress in processing applications. Of the 1,111 applications submitted since January 2025, 731 have been cleared. She added that 285 complaints from consumers have been resolved, reflecting efforts to address grievances and improve accountability in the sector.

Officials reiterated that enforcement will be strengthened in the coming months to safeguard buyers and improve the credibility of Andhra Pradesh’s real estate market.