Chennai: The District Consumer Dispute Redressal Forum, Chennai (South) has directed a builder to pay Rs 6.13 lakh to a NRI woman for constructing a residential building with several defects.
In the petition, NRI Mrs. Devikrishnan, Edaikkazhinadu village, Cheyyur Taluk, Kanchipuram, submitted that she had proposed to construct a residential building in her property measuring 2,100 sq. ft built up area excluding overhead tank, stair room and sump.
On September 10, 2008 she entered into an agreement with Kumar Builders, represented by its proprietor A. Raamkumar, Ekkattuthangal to construct the building for a total cost for Rs 31.50 lakh. She paid Rs 45 lakh towards construction.
The possession was handed over to her in October 2009. Soon after the occupation of the building, she found that there was moisture in the bathroom, dining room and walls. Similarly she noticed water seepage and cracks on walls.
She also found several discrepancies in the construction work including septic tank, compound wall and soak pit.
She sent a notice to the builder on May 6, 2011 . As there was no response, she filed the petition seeking direction to him to pay a compensation of Rs 20 lakh for causing her harassment, mental agony and deficiency in service.
In his reply, Raamkumar submitted most of the allegations she raised were commonly found in all the new buildings. He had nothing to do with leakage and seepage of water.
It took place due to the damage done by the woman to the tiles. Hence he had not committed any deficiency in service.
The Advocate Commissioner, who was appointed by this forum, filed a report confirming deficiencies and defects in the building. The bench comprising President M.Mony, members K. Amala And Dr T. Paul Rajasekaran, directed the builder to pay Rs 6.13 lakh to her for causing negligence in construction of the building.
