The Karnataka Real Estate Regulatory Authority (K-RERA) has ruled that developers cannot pass certain project-related statutory expenses on to homebuyers before handover, according to a report published in Bengaluru on October 22.

One example cited is GST on Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) bills. Buyers have sometimes faced such extra demands shortly before taking possession, after they had already paid most of the price of their homes.

Why it matters for buyers

Disputes over last-minute charges are a common source of friction at handover. The ruling gives buyers a firmer basis to question charges that are not part of their agreement, and could reduce ambiguity in future sale contracts.

Before you take possession

  • Compare every demand in the possession letter with your agreement for sale.
  • Ask the developer for a written breakdown and the legal basis of any new charge.
  • Complaints can be filed with K-RERA online through its portal.

The published report did not name the developer or project involved, and Bharat Square has not seen the order itself.