Telangana RERA Takes Firm Stance on Kavuri Forest Nest Maintenance
Background
In June 2024, a group of villa owners in Kavuri Forest Nest, Tukkuguda, Hyderabad questioned the folding of services promised by the developer. The villa owners had signed an Agreement of Sale (AOS) providing five years of maintenance at a set price of ₹50 per square foot. Beginning that June, the developer drastically reduced or completely ceased basic maintenance services including road sweeping, garden, security, and upkeep of the clubhouse, gym and swimming pool.
The Complaints
- Service stoppages: The developer has allegedly removed key services without any justification, and in spite of an enforceable contract.
- Excess charges: Homeowners were suddenly told they would owe extra money, a move that fundamentally contradicted the original AOS.
- Health & safety concerns: Residents reported leaks, unsafe electrical work, and inaccurate marketing—especially as it relates to being a “gated community,” which was later negated because the municipality did not approve it.
RERA’s Response
On July 11, 2025, the Telangana Real Estate Regulatory Authority (TGRERA) issued a firm order to the developer, Kavuri Ravi Kumar:
1. The services must be restored as indicated in the AOS without delay until any common areas are taken over formally.
2. Stop all extra charges and reaffirm the fixed maintenance charge stated in the contract.
3. All correspondence must contain the project name “Kavuri Forest Nest” and a statement that any deviation would result in penalties in accordance with the consequence of penalties in the Section 37 of the RERA Act, 2016.
4. Clarification was required: While the residents may seek to add to the services through their association, the developer cannot unilaterally add to or diminish the maintenance agreed upon.
Developer’s Perspective
The developer defended his behaviour by claiming that some responsibilities were being handled by the residents’ association and argued that the increased operational costs were justification for the charges. Nonetheless, RERA explained that charges of this nature are not permitted under the sales agreement.
What This Means for Homeowners and Developers
| Stakeholder | Implication |
|---|---|
| Homebuyers | This directive brings relief and legal backing. It reaffirms your right to services as per contract and provides a strong precedent for accountability. |
| Developers | You’re reminded that maintenance duties aren’t optional or negotiable until formal handover. Deviating from agreements can result in penalties. |
| Resident Associations | While you can supplement amenities, you can’t override contractual obligations or fund what the developer is mandated to provide. |
Broader Impact: A Win for Accountability
This matter represents a great win for the enforcement of consumer rights. It also demonstrates RERA’s purposeful role in ensuring that the commitments made by developers in relation to their real estate project, are upheld. By rules of law, they are binding obligations which thus protect the interests of consumers and also impose an obligation on developers to fulfill their commitments.
What’s Next
- Keeping a watch to see whether or not residents will again receive the promised service within a reasonable time and manner.
- Imposition of penalties. The imposition of penalties for any breach of previous directions could result in fines or stricter control from RERA.
- Framework for future projects. The direction made in this case could provide a framework for developers in how to structure and advertise maintenance of responsibilities for future projects.
In Summary
The delivery of the order by the Telangana RERA in its very firm favour of the residents of Kavuri Forest Nest sends a very clear message. Contractual clarity and belief in promised commitments are fundamental. Homeowners can feel reassured they have the benefit of regulation to do something, while developers ought to be mindful that their reputations are contingent upon the faithful discharge of commitments to buyers.
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