How the 2-year limitation period works — and what to do if you’re past it
Learn how the 2-year limitation period works under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, how to count it, and what to do if you are late (condonation of delay).
You were cheated, or got bad service. You want to file a consumer complaint. But how long do you have? The law gives you 2 years. Let’s see how that clock works in simple words.
- You have 2 years from the date your problem started (Section 69, Consumer Protection Act, 2019).
- The clock starts when the wrong happened, not when you got angry.
- Missed the date? You can still file with a condonation of delay application.
What is the limitation period?
“Limitation” means a last date to file. The date to start counting is called the cause of action. This simply means the day your problem began. A consumer commission will not take your complaint after 2 years, unless you give a good reason for the delay.
When does the 2-year clock start?
It depends on what went wrong. These are common examples:
| Your problem | Clock usually starts on |
|---|---|
| Product is faulty | The day the fault first showed up (or the company refused to fix it) |
| Service was not given | The day it was supposed to be given |
| Insurance claim rejected | The date of the rejection letter |
| Wrong charge on card or bill | The day of the charge, or the day a refund was refused |
| Flat or plot not handed over | It can keep running, because the wrong continues until you get possession |
Every case is different. When in doubt, count from the earliest date.
Check your deadline
The path in one picture
Past 2 years? What to do
Do not give up. Section 69 lets the commission accept a late complaint if you show a sufficient cause for the delay. The commission must write down its reason for accepting it.
What is condonation? It means the commission “forgives” the delay. You ask for it in a short written application filed with your complaint. In it:
- Say how many days or months you are late.
- Explain the reason clearly. Be honest and give dates.
- Attach proof, like a medical record, travel proof, or emails showing you kept trying to settle.
- Ask the commission to accept your complaint.
Reasons that are often weak: “I was busy” or “I did not know the law”. Reasons that are stronger: illness, the company kept promising to fix it, or you were stuck in a long talk with the company.
A simple example
Ravi bought a phone on 10 January 2025. It stopped working on 5 March 2025. The shop refused to repair it on 20 April 2025.
Which date should Ravi count from? The safest choice is the earliest one, 5 March 2025, when the fault first appeared. That gives him until 5 March 2027. If he counted from the refusal date, he might think he has until April 2027. A commission could disagree, so it is better not to take that risk.
Why does this rule exist?
Old papers get lost. Memories fade. Companies also delete records after some time. A time limit keeps cases fair for both sides. It also pushes everyone to solve problems while proof is still fresh.
Mistakes to avoid
- Waiting for the company to reply. Many people wait months for an answer and lose time.
- Counting from the wrong date. Do not count from the day you got the last email. Count from when the problem began.
- Giving a weak reason for delay. “I forgot” will not help. Give dates and proof.
- Not keeping proof. Keep bills, chats, emails and letters in one folder from day one.
3 simple tips
- Write the date down the day the problem starts.
- Keep proof of every step. Invoices, chats and emails help.
- File early. Do not wait for the last week.
Common questions
How long do I have to file a consumer complaint in India?
You have 2 years from the date the cause of action arose, as per Section 69 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
Can I file a consumer complaint after 2 years?
Yes, if the commission is satisfied you had a sufficient cause for the delay. You must file a condonation of delay application with your complaint, and the commission records its reasons in writing.
Does sending a legal notice extend the 2-year limit?
Usually no. Reminders and notices generally do not restart the clock, so it is safer to file within 2 years.
What if the problem is still going on?
In some cases, such as a flat that has still not been delivered, the wrong is continuing and the clock may keep running. Ask a lawyer to check your case.
This article is for general information only. It is not legal advice. Laws and fees can change, so please check the latest rules or talk to a lawyer before you act.