The Haryana Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) has decided to verify, as thoroughly as possible, the authenticity of the two-thirds consent submitted by developers when seeking changes to layouts or revisions to building plans. This move follows the provisions of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, which requires the approval of at least two-thirds of allottees for any such changes. During a meeting, RERA officials emphasised the importance of ensuring that developers comply with Section 14 of the Act, which mandates that no alterations or additions to sanctioned plans, layouts, or specifications can be made without the consent of the allottees. The Act allows minor changes only if required by the allottees or for architectural and structural reasons, provided these are verified by an authorised architect or engineer. Section 14 (2)(II) further specifies that developers cannot make significant alterations to the building or common areas without the written consent of two-thirds of the allottees, excluding the developer. Typically, before permitting alterations, the authority issues a public notice inviting objections. If no objections are raised, the changes are approved. If objections are received, they are considered on merit. A senior RERA official stated that the verification of consent will help uphold the rights of allottees under the RERA Act. Advocate Harshit Batra, who specialises in property cases, supported the decision, noting that it will prevent future legal disputes over revised plans and ensure smoother implementation of development projects. (ET)