Builder Hiding Defects? Get an Independent Audit Now

Tamil Nadu's real estate tribunal ruled that homebuyers can hire their own engineer to inspect construction quality, even if the builder refuses. This is a big win for buyers worried about poor materials or shoddy work.

Here's what happened: Tamil Nadu Real Estate Appellate Tribunal (TNREAT) ruled that homebuyers can appoint independent engineers to audit construction quality, overriding builder objections.. The tribunal held that such inspections protect both parties — verifying promised standards and giving builders a chance to fix genuine defects before disputes escalate.. Under RERA, builders across India are legally bound by a 5-year defect liability period, during which they must repair structural defects at no cost to the buyer..

What you should do: Hire a certified structural engineer (cost: ₹5,000–₹20,000) to inspect your flat before or within 1 year of possession — defects caught early are cheaper to fix.. File a written complaint with your state's RERA authority if your builder refuses an independent inspection — this ruling supports your legal right to audit.. Document everything: photograph all cracks, seepage, or finishing defects and send a registered letter to your builder citing RERA's 5-year defect liability clause..

Under Section 14(3) of RERA, any structural defect reported within 5 years of possession must be fixed by the builder free of cost — most buyers never use this right.