India’s real estate landscape has evolved since the introduction of the regulatory framework established under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016. State-level regulatory interventions have further strengthened this framework by addressing consumer concerns. In a significant move to curb irregularities in administrative charges imposed by promoters and developers, the Uttar Pradesh Real Estate Regulatory Authority (UP RERA) amended regulation 47 of the Uttar Pradesh RERA (General) Regulations, 2019, through a notification dated 24 March 2026.

Prior to this reform, allottees encountered financial and practical challenges during succession and transfer processes, including arbitrary and excessive transfer fees, insistence on execution of unnecessary documents, unclear transfer procedures, delays in updating ownership records, and impositions of charges lacking a clear legal basis. Even in ordinary transfers by way of sale or conveyance, promoters frequently imposed arbitrary and substantial charges.
Read More+
The abovementioned amendment aims to achieve continuity in contractual responsibilities, streamline administrative requirements and cap transfer charges arbitrarily imposed on homebuyers. Please see below the key highlights of this amendment:
Courts and regulatory authorities have on several occasions examined the imbalance in bargaining power between promoters and homebuyers, particularly where standard-form agreements permit promoters to impose onerous and unilateral obligations.
In Sharad Avasthi v Pivotal Infrastructure Private Limited, the Haryana Real Estate Appellate Tribunal (HREAT) adopted a firm stance against arbitrary transfer charges. In that case, the developer charged INR150 per square foot despite the agreement stipulating a charge of INR50 per square foot.
The HREAT held the enhanced charge to be “highly exorbitant, unjustified and illegal”, and directed a refund of the excess amount. The HREAT further rejected the developer’s contention that the buyers had voluntarily accepted the impugned charge, recognising that such undertakings are often obtained under circumstances where homebuyers possess limited leverage.
UP RERA’s recent amendments represent a significant step towards strengthening consumer protection and improving transparency in the real estate sector. By capping transfer charges, simplifying succession procedures and eliminating the need for fresh agreements on transfers, the regulation addresses concerns that have historically burdened homebuyers.
From a regulatory perspective, the amendments establish a framework that curtails arbitrary practices while balancing the legitimate administrative interests of promoters. Going forward, additional guidelines regarding the documentation and procedural requirements applicable to succession and third-party transfers may further minimise ambiguity.
This article was originally published in India Business Law Journal on 24 June 2026 Co-written by: Rohit Bajaj, Partner; Shridha Malhotra, Principal Associate; Abhimanyu Chattree, Associate. Click here for original article
Read Less-
Contributed by: Rohit Bajaj, Partner; Shridha Malhotra, Principal Associate; Abhimanyu Chattree, Associate
Disclaimer
This is intended for general information purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author/authors and does not necessarily reflect the views of the firm.
The Bar Council of India does not permit solicitation of work and advertising by legal practitioners and advocates. By accessing the Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co. website (our website), the user acknowledges that:
Click here for important public notice from the Firm.