Here are some tips to protect yourself against property fraud in Gurgaon: 1. Buy from reputed developers - Only purchase properties from well-known and reputed developers that have a proven track record of successful projects in Gurgaon. Avoid little known builders with no experience. Reputed developers have more to lose from fraudulent practices. 2. Check approvals - Verify that the project has all necessary approvals from Haryana RERA, Gurgaon Municipal Corporation and Directorate of Town and Country Planning. Lack of approvals indicates a fraudulent project and must be avoided. 3. Visit RERA website - Search for details of the project on the Haryana RERA website to confirm its registration status and see if there are any complaints against the developer. Check if all details on the site match what the developer has committed. 4. Check documents - Review copies of the project plans, layouts, approvals, licenses, completion certificates, etc. Look for any signs of forgery or inconsistencies. Have a lawyer review the purchase agreement and sale deed before signing. 5. See progress - Visit the site to check on progress of construction and match with the timeline promised by the developer. Lack of activity or actual progress not matching claims is a sign of a fraudulent project. The developer may be using funds from new purchases to complete previous projects. 6. Talk to residents - Try contacting people who have already purchased properties in the project or other projects from the same developer. Check if they are satisfied with the builder and quality of construction and facing any problems. Get references from the builder and verify them independently. 7. Check defaults - Search online for news reports or court cases of any previous defaults, frauds or litigation against the concerned developer. See if there are any complaints on consumer forums or social media. These signs all point to risky projects. 8. Consider resale - For ready-to-move flats, consider buying from existing owners instead of the developer directly. Since the owners have gone through the legal process and lived in the flats, the risk of fraud is lower. But conduct due diligence on approvals and documentation even in resale purchases. 9. Be wary of incentives - Be cautious of developers offering too-good-to-be-true incentives like unusually low prices, high rental assurances, guaranteed returns, lavish gifts, waived fees, etc. These are tactics used to lure buyers into fraudulent deals. Avoid projects making such dubious offers. So be an informed buyer, exercise caution, conduct thorough due diligence and never feel under pressure to make hasty decisions. Preventing fraud is better than fighting it later!.

Even after conducting due diligence, if you suspect fraud or become a victim of fraud, there are steps you can take to seek redressal. Report the issue to the relevant authorities, including the RERA, consumer courts, and local police. It's also advisable to seek legal assistance to understand your rights and the best course of action.

For more detailed guidance on what to do if you suspect fraud or if fraud occurs, read our comprehensive guide here.