MUMBAI: What was intended to be the beginning of luxurious living has turned into a nightmare for numerous residents in a housing society in Mulund West. Many homeowners allege they were defrauded of lakhs of rupees by interior design firms that promised to transform their newly acquired apartments but vanished after collecting hefty advance payments.
Residents report that at least four interior design firms accepted advance payments totaling lakhs of rupees, assuring them that work would be completed on time. However, many homeowners claim the projects were either halted midway or never started, despite numerous assurances and follow-ups. Growing frustration within the community has led residents to demand strict action against these firms and a thorough investigation into what they believe is a coordinated scam targeting eager homebuyers.
Many residents who hired the firms back in December are still waiting for the promised work to commence. Several have alleged that when they approached the police, they were informed it was a civil matter since some work had been done by the contractors. Frustrated by the lack of advancement and escalating financial losses, many homeowners have begun legal proceedings.
One victim, Sushil Chatrani, stated that he paid Rs 27 lakh to an interior firm but received little in return. “It’s hard to believe I’ve been scammed out of Rs 27 lakh with the promise of completed interiors. Nearly 95% of the work remains unfinished. The police told us to take it to civil court since it is a civil dispute. I’ve now sent a legal notice to the firm,” Chatrani expressed to Mumbai Mirror.
Another resident, Anupama Tiwari, reported she paid an advance of Rs 1.7 lakh for interior work that was supposed to cost Rs 17 lakh, yet the project never commenced. “Like many others in the building, I feel cheated. The firm accepted the advance but did not start the work. Their staff has been rude and unresponsive, leaving us helpless after being told it’s a civil matter. We have now approached the civil court. I noticed on their social media pages that many customers have similar complaints,” Tiwari mentioned.
A third resident claimed he paid Rs 5 lakh in advance for interior work that was left unfinished. “I paid Rs 5 lakh, promised timely completion of the interiors and additional fittings. However, much of the work specified in the contract is incomplete. Since April, the contractor has claimed he is out of Mumbai and will complete the work upon his return,” he said.
Residents are now considering collective legal action and seeking tougher measures against these firms, asserting that many homeowners in the society are facing significant financial setbacks.
