At a glance
| Governing law | Consumer Protection Act, 2019 |
|---|---|
| District Commission | Claims where consideration paid is up to ₹50 lakh |
| State Commission | Above ₹50 lakh and up to ₹2 crore |
| National Commission (NCDRC) | Above ₹2 crore |
| Limitation | 2 years from the date the cause of action arises (Section 69) |
| Filing fee | Nil for claims up to ₹5 lakh; graded fees above that |
Consumer matters we handle
Real estate and homebuyers
Delayed possession, refund with interest, and defective construction complaints against builders.
Insurance claims
Wrongful repudiation of health, motor, life and property insurance claims.
Medical negligence
Complaints against hospitals and doctors for deficiency in medical services.
Banking and financial services
Unauthorised transactions, wrongful charges and deficient service by banks and NBFCs.
E-commerce and products
Defective goods, non-delivery, refunds and unfair contract terms on online platforms.
Business defence
Replies, evidence and appeals for manufacturers, sellers, service providers and platforms.
How to file a consumer complaint
Send a legal notice
A clear notice to the trader or service provider often resolves the matter and records your grievance.
Choose the Commission
Decide pecuniary jurisdiction based on the consideration paid, and file where you reside or work, or where the opposite party operates.
File the complaint
File online through the national e-filing portal or physically, with documents, an affidavit and the fee.
Admission and notice
The Commission admits the complaint and issues notice. The opposite party has 30 days, extendable by 15, to reply.
Evidence and hearing
Both sides file evidence by affidavit, followed by arguments. Mediation may be offered.
Order and appeal
Appeals from the District Commission lie to the State Commission within 45 days, with a deposit of 50 percent of the amount ordered.
Relief you can seek
- Refund of the price or charges paid, with interest
- Replacement or repair of defective goods
- Compensation for loss, injury and mental agony
- Discontinuance of an unfair trade practice
- Punitive damages in suitable cases
- Litigation costs
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a lawyer to file a consumer complaint?
No. Consumers can file and argue their own complaints. Professional help is useful for drafting, valuing the claim, evidence and higher-value or complex cases, and for businesses defending claims.
Where can I file a consumer complaint?
Under Section 34 of the 2019 Act, you can file where you reside or personally work for gain, as well as where the opposite party resides or carries on business, or where the cause of action arose.
What is the time limit to file a consumer complaint?
Two years from the date the cause of action arises. Delay can be condoned if you show sufficient cause, but you should file promptly.
How is pecuniary jurisdiction decided?
Since the 2021 Jurisdiction Rules, it is based on the value of consideration paid for the goods or services, not the compensation claimed: up to ₹50 lakh at the District Commission, up to ₹2 crore at the State Commission, and above that at the National Commission.
Can homebuyers approach consumer courts and RERA at the same time?
The Supreme Court has held that consumer remedies are in addition to remedies under RERA, so homebuyers can choose the forum. Parallel proceedings for the same relief should be avoided.
Talk to Inovatree about consumer court cases
Inovatree Consultants LLP works from Delhi NCR, Mumbai and Kolkata with clients across India. Learn more about the firm on inovatree.in:
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Last reviewed 24 October 2026. This guide summarises the law in general terms. Every matter turns on its own facts, so take advice before acting.