Booking a flat is a major financial commitment, and the apartment floor plan is often one of the main reasons a buyer chooses a particular unit. This raises an important question: Can a builder change the flat layout after booking?
The answer depends on the nature of the proposed change, the terms of the agreement and applicable real estate regulations. Buyers should carefully review their documents before accepting any significant modification.
Can a Builder Change the Flat Layout?
A builder may not have unlimited freedom to make changes to a booked flat. Once a buyer has agreed to purchase a specific unit based on an approved or represented plan, significant changes may require compliance with applicable regulations and, in certain circumstances, the buyer's consent.
Minor changes that do not materially affect the flat may be treated differently from substantial alterations. For example, changes affecting room sizes, walls, entrances, balconies or the overall configuration can be more significant.
Check the Sanctioned Plan
If the builder proposes a change, compare the original sanctioned plan and the plan being offered after the change. Check whether the alteration affects the carpet area, room dimensions, common areas, balcony or other features promised at the time of booking.
Buyers should also check the agreement for sale because it may contain specific provisions regarding permissible modifications.
Also Read: How to Get a Sanctioned Building Plan
What Do RERA Rules Say?
The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA) provides protections for homebuyers and regulates changes to sanctioned plans and project specifications.
The exact rights and procedure can depend on the nature of the change and the applicable provisions. Therefore, buyers should not assume that a builder can make any change simply because construction is still underway.
If a proposed modification materially affects the flat or project, buyers can ask the builder to provide the revised plan, reasons for the change and details of the relevant approval or consent.
Also Read: How to File a RERA Complaint Against a Builder in Bangalore
What Should a Buyer Do?
If you are informed about a layout change, avoid giving verbal approval immediately. Ask for the revised flat layout, sanctioned documents and a written explanation from the builder.
Compare the original and revised plans and check whether the change affects the property's area, usability, amenities or agreed specifications.
If you believe your homebuyer rights have been affected, consider consulting a property lawyer or approaching the appropriate RERA authority.
In short, a builder cannot necessarily change a booked flat layout without restrictions. The buyer's agreement, sanctioned plans and applicable RERA provisions are important when determining whether a proposed change is permissible. Keeping all booking documents and communications in writing can help protect the buyer if a dispute arises.
