'Signed, Sealed... But Not Delivered?': 10 Documents You Must Check Before Buying Property

Buying property in India isn’t just about location, price, or “Vastu-compliant balconies.” It’s a legal safari — and the only thing worse than missing out on a great deal is landing yourself in a dispute that outlives your enthusiasm (and possibly your retirement).

So, before you sign that cheque or pop the champagne, here are 10 documents that deserve more attention than the builder’s glossy brochure.

1. Title Document: Because You Can’t Own What They Don’t

No person can pass on a better title than what they legally possess. The title could stem from a registered sale deed, gift deed, will, or conveyance deed. But beware: if the foundation is just a power of attorney (PoA) — usually to save on stamp duty — you’re standing on shaky legal ground. PoA-based purchases may one day haunt your heirs in court. Rule of thumb: if it’s not registered, it’s not real.

Avoid: Society patta. Even banks don’t touch it with a ten-foot pole.

2. Chain of Title (Channel Documents): Follow the Paper Trail

Imagine buying a car without checking if it’s stolen. The chain of documents is that history, right from the original owner down to the current seller. Breaks in this chain are red flags bigger than the property’s carpet area promises.

3. Encumbrance Certificate: Is Your Dream Home Already Mortgaged?

This gem reveals whether the property has been pledged as collateral. You apply through Form 22 at the local registrar’s office. While it may not catch every secret loan, it’s a solid start. Think of it as a dating background check for property.

4. Occupancy Certificate (OC): No OC, No Key

An OC proves the builder has complied with sanctioned plans and safety norms. Builders may entice you with "possession-ready units", — but remember, loss of opportunity is better than loss of legality. No OC means no peace of mind.

5. Allotment Letter: Your First Love Letter from the Builder

It’s the builder’s formal commitment. Without it, your “allotted unit” might remain a mythical creature. Many defaulting builders don’t issue this, leaving you holding little more than a WhatsApp chat history.

6. Urban Development Tax Receipt: Because Municipalities Never Forget

This annual payment is your contribution to the city’s growth. Miss it and you might inherit not just a house, but a municipal headache. Always check that the seller has paid up.

7. Car Parking Allotment Letter: The Most Ignored Real Estate in Real Estate

Buyers often assume a parking spot is included. Reality check: Unless you have it in writing, you might find your car “parked” outside your own dream home.

8. No Objection Certificate (NOC): Get Society’s Blessing

Before you take possession, ensure that all maintenance dues are cleared and the Resident Welfare Association (RWA) has no outstanding objections. A grumpy RWA is tougher to deal with than any builder.

9. Mutation Letter: The Unsung Hero of Land Transfers

Call it Jamabandi, Dakhil-Kharij, or Namakaran — mutation records update the government’s books with your name post-purchase. It doesn’t prove ownership, but it’s the first thing a revenue officer will ask. Grandma gave it to Dad via a will, Dad gave it to you — now make sure your name is in the books too.

10. Land Conversion Certificate: From Farmhouse Fantasy to Legal Reality

Buying agricultural land? Unless it’s been legally converted to non-agricultural (NA) use, you can build nothing beyond a scarecrow. Conversion requires payment to Nagar Nigam, and cutting corners here can lead to demolition or worse — litigation.

Final Word: Don't Let a Dream Home Become a Legal Nightmare

In India, land is not just an asset — it’s emotion, legacy, and identity. That’s exactly why it’s so ripe for manipulation. Fraudsters, fly-by-night developers, and silver-tongued brokers often use urgency as a tool. If you're being told "Sir, book now or lose it forever," ask yourself — What exactly am I losing?

Remember: Checklist > Checkbook. Do your due diligence. Hire a lawyer. Take your time. After all, you’re not just buying land — you’re buying peace.

Raj Kumar Varier is an independent legal advisor and former legal head with Airtel, Samsung, Disney Star, DEN, and ABP. He advises on real estate, media, technology, and policy matters across India, and is a trusted partner for legal, regulatory, and forensic matters.

Disclaimer: The opinions, beliefs, and views expressed by the various authors and forum participants on this website are personal and do not reflect the opinions, beliefs, and views of ABP Network Pvt. Ltd.

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