Consumer commission orders builder to pay Rs 25.025 lakh for defective home

Visakh K. entered a contract with Luxury Builders on January 13, 2022 to construct a residential house in Kalliyoor for Rs 32 lakh, promising delivery within six months. The project was completed only in January 2024, and the homeowner reported numerous defects, including leaking plumbing, cracked walls, peeling paint and inferior fittings. An expert commissioner and an advocate commissioner inspected the property and documented substandard materials, faulty workmanship and violations of civil engineering norms.

The Kollam district consumer commission, chaired by President S K Sreela and member Stanly Harold, found the builder responsible for the deficiencies and ordered payment of Rs 20 lakh for necessary repairs, Rs 5 lakh for mental anguish, and Rs 25,000 for litigation costs, with 9 % annual interest from the contract date. The builder failed to appear before the commission and the order must be complied with within 45 days.