File a Complaint Against a Real Estate Agent

Buying or renting property is a big decision, but sometimes real estate agents fail to meet expectations by giving false promises, hiding crucial details, or overcharging. If you’ve faced cheating, fraud, or poor service, don’t worry, you have the legal right to file a complaint and seek justice. This detailed guide will help you learn how to file a complaint against a real estate agent.

Reasons to File a Complaint Against a Real Estate Agent

Most real estate agents work professionally, but there are times when some agents mislead, cheat, or provide poor service that can cause financial loss or emotional stress. If you have faced such issues, you have every right to file a complaint and seek justice. Here are some of the most common reasons why people file complaints against real estate agents:

• Misrepresentation and False Promises: Some agents exaggerate property details or give false assurances about location, size, legal status, or amenities. This can lead to buyer dissatisfaction, financial loss, or legal complications later. As per the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, such misleading practices are grounds for a formal complaint.
• Non-Disclosure of Legal Issues: An agent is expected to inform buyers about any legal disputes, property encumbrances, or approvals. If the agent hides crucial information and the buyer later faces legal trouble, the agent can be held responsible.
• Charging Excessive or Hidden Fees: Many consumers complain about agents charging unfair commission fees or adding hidden charges that were never disclosed upfront. This is unethical and actionable.
• Delayed Possession or Project Fraud: In the case of property purchases, some agents misguide buyers into investing in non-existent or delayed projects without proper verification. This often leads to huge financial losses.
• Poor After-Sales Service: Once the deal is closed, some agents become unreachable or unhelpful in resolving post-sale issues such as paperwork, registration delays, or builder coordination.

Eligibility Criteria to File a Complaint Against a Real Estate Agent

Facing issues with a real estate agent can be stressful, but as a consumer, you have the legal right to seek justice. The following details include who is eligible to file a complaint and under what conditions:

1. Any Homebuyer, Tenant, Seller, or Landlord

If you have bought, sold, rented, or leased a property through a real estate agent and have faced fraud, misrepresentation, overcharging, false promises, or poor service, you are eligible to file a complaint. Both individuals and businesses (like builders) can take action if they feel wronged. For instance, if your agent promised certain property features or possession timelines that were never met, you can file a complaint.

2. Legal Heirs or Authorised Representatives

In cases where the original buyer, seller, or tenant is unable to file the complaint due to illness, absence, or even death, their family members, legal heirs, or authorised representatives can step in and file the complaint on their behalf. This ensures that no consumer is denied justice due to unforeseen circumstances.

3. Must Involve Service Deficiency, Misconduct, or Unfair Practices

Your complaint should be based on genuine grievances such as:

• Misleading information about the property
• Non-disclosure of legal or financial issues
• Delays in possession or payment disputes
• Overcharging or hidden fees
• Unethical or unprofessional behaviour

4. Proper Documentation is Required

To make your complaint strong and valid, you must have supporting documents such as:

• Sale or rental agreements
• Payment receipts or transaction proofs
• Email or message records with the agent
• Photographs or videos (if relevant)

These documents help establish your case clearly and increase the chances of a fair resolution.

File a Complaint Against a Real Estate Agent

There are times when real estate agents act unprofessionally, mislead clients, or provide poor service, causing financial loss or stress. If you have faced such issues, you have every right to raise your voice and file a complaint for fair resolution. The details below include the process to file a complaint against a real estate agent:

Step 1: Gather All Necessary Evidence

Before filing your complaint, it is crucial to collect all relevant documents and proof that support your case. A well-prepared complaint backed by solid evidence greatly improves your chances of a quick and fair solution.

Make sure you have:

• Property sale/purchase agreement or rental contract
• Payment receipts or transaction details
• Email or WhatsApp exchanges, call logs, or written communication
• Screenshots of misleading advertisements or false promises
• Any previous complaint references or written grievances

Keeping both digital and printed copies of this information demonstrates that you have made sincere efforts to resolve the matter before escalating it legally.

Step 2: File Your Complaint on the Agent's Grievance Portal

Many reputed real estate agencies and brokers are required to maintain an internal grievance redressal system as per the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 and RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority) guidelines.

• To file your complaint, visit the agency's official website or grievance section.

Submit your complaint by including:

• Your name, contact details, and email
• Complete details of the property transaction
• A clear description of the issue (false promise, overcharging, delay, etc.)
• Upload all supporting documents and screenshots

Always ask for a complaint reference number to track your case. Most companies are required to respond within 15 to 30 working days.

Step 3: Follow Up Regularly Until Resolution

Once you file the complaint:

• Use the reference number to check the status online or via customer care.
• Send polite but firm follow-up emails if you don’t receive timely updates.
• Keep a record of all communications for future reference.

Consistent and respectful follow-ups help in faster resolution and show that you are serious about your grievance.

If the real estate agent fails to resolve the issue, you can escalate the complaint to the National Consumer Helpline (NCH). For property project-related complaints, you can approach RERA. Alternatively, you can use Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) platforms like Online Legal India for fast, cost-effective legal help without going to court.

Why Consumers Prefer ODR for Complaints?

Buying or renting a property is a major milestone, but sometimes real estate agents may act unfairly, misleading clients, hiding property facts, delaying possession, or charging hidden fees. Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) has emerged as a faster, easier, and more consumer-friendly way to file complaints against such agents without going to court.

1. Faster Solutions Without Long Legal Delays

Traditional consumer courts in India can take months or even years to settle cases. ODR platforms such as Online Legal India or government-supported forums help resolve real estate complaints like:

• False property claims
• Misrepresentation of legal status
• Delay in property possession

These issues are often settled within a few weeks, saving consumers from endless waiting.

2. Entirely Online—No Physical Visits Required

ODR makes the entire process digital. From filing the complaint to attending virtual hearings, everything is done from the comfort of your home. This is ideal for:

• Busy professionals
• Senior citizens
• People living in remote areas

There is no need to visit any court or office physically.

3. No Lawyer Required—Simple and Affordable

ODR platforms are user-friendly and cost-effective. You don’t need to hire expensive lawyers or have legal knowledge. The step-by-step guidance helps you:

• File the complaint easily
• Upload proofs like emails, payment receipts, or agreements
• Receive timely updates

For minor disputes, this saves both time and money.

4. Legally Binding Decisions

Decisions made through ODR carry full legal validity under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. If the real estate agent fails to comply:

• You can enforce the decision like a court order
• It ensures the complaint is taken seriously and resolved properly

5. Safe, Private, and Stress-Free

ODR offers a confidential environment without the stress of face-to-face confrontations or lengthy legal proceedings. It is especially useful for:

• Disputes involving fraud
• Cases of delayed possession or non-refund
• Unprofessional or unethical behaviour

Understanding ODR in Filing Complaints Against a Real Estate Agent

Buying, selling, or renting a property is one of life’s biggest financial decisions. But sometimes, real estate agents may engage in unfair practices, such as making false promises, hiding crucial information, charging hidden fees, or delaying property handovers. These situations can cause financial loss, stress, and frustration. Fortunately, Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) in India offers a faster, simpler, and legally valid way to settle such disputes without going to court.

How Does ODR Work for Real Estate Complaints?

ODR platforms help both consumers and real estate service providers resolve complaints in a structured, transparent, and fully digital environment using three methods: mediation, negotiation, and arbitration.

Step 1: Gather Strong Evidence—The First Crucial Step

Before filing your complaint, collect all necessary documents to strengthen your case. These include:

• Property sale or rental agreement
• Payment receipts, bank transfers, or transaction proofs
• Screenshots of misleading advertisements or false promises
• Email exchanges, chat records, or complaint reference numbers

The Consumer Protection Act, 2019, and the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA) require agents to act fairly. Your documented proof ensures you have a solid foundation for your complaint.

Step 2: File Your Complaint on an ODR Platform

You can submit your complaint using:

• The National Consumer Helpline (NCH)
• Private ODR platforms like Online Legal India

These platforms guide you step-by-step to:

• Submit the complaint
• Upload evidence and describe your issue clearly
• Track updates online

ODR is easy to use, even for first-timers, and saves you the trouble of physical visits.

Step 3: Mediation—For Friendly, Fast Settlements

In mediation:

• A neutral third party (mediator) facilitates discussion between you and the agent
• Common issues like false claims, service lapses, or refund disputes are resolved quickly

The goal is to reach an agreement that satisfies both parties without formal legal action.

Step 4: Negotiation—For Minor Disputes

In smaller issues:

• You or your representative can directly negotiate with the agent
• Matters like billing errors, minor service lapses, or refund clarifications can often be resolved easily

Negotiation is low-cost and quick.

Step 5: Arbitration—For Serious or Unresolved Complaints

If mediation fails:

• A qualified arbitrator reviews the case and issues a binding decision (arbitral award)
• The award is legally enforceable under the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996

When real estate agents fail to deliver on promises, it’s important to know that you are not helpless. With simple, digital solutions like Online Dispute Resolution (ODR), you can protect your rights, save time, and achieve justice, all without the stress of courtrooms. Stay informed, act confidently, and demand fair treatment because every consumer deserves honesty, transparency, and respect in their property dealings. Contact Online Legal India to get assistance and support in filing a complaint against a real estate agent through ODR.