Kerala builder to pay Rs 25 lakh as ‘unfit’ home forces family out within 2 years

A Kerala builder has been ordered to pay Rs 25 lakh for constructing an "unfit" home that forced a family out within two years, according to a recent ruling by the Kollam District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission. The homeowner, who paid Rs 42.63 lakh for the residential property in Kalliyoor, Thiruvananthapuram, was left with severe construction defects including leaking plumbing, dampness, cracks in walls and the terrace, peeling paint, damaged kitchen cabinets, poor waterproofing and defective electrical work.

The commission found that the house was unfit for occupation and posed serious threats to health, safety and mental peace, necessitating the homeowner to seek alternative accommodation. The ruling underscores the liability of builders when construction defects cause safety concerns, financial losses and the need for alternative accommodation, emphasizing the importance of adhering to agreed construction standards.