Essential Documents to Check Before Buying a Property in India

Buying property is not just a financial move. It is a legal commitment. Every document must be verified. A clean title and proper approvals protect you from disputes, penalties, and delays. In India, paperwork is the backbone of any real estate deal. It confirms ownership, legality, and authority approvals. If you are buying a flat or a plot, do not rely on verbal claims. Use this detailed legal checklist for home buyers in India before signing a document.

Wrong or missing documents can delay registration, block home loan approvals, or cause legal trouble. Some properties carry hidden liabilities. Others lack proper building permissions. A strong paper trail protects your money and your peace of mind.

Start with the Title Deed

This is the first document to ask for is, in fact, the title deed. It proves the seller is the legal owner. Check if the name matches the ID and sale claim. The title must be clear, marketable, and free from legal cases. Do not proceed if the title deed is missing or unclear.

Check the Sale Deed

Sale Deed is the paper that transfers ownership to you. It must be registered with the local sub-registrar. If it is not registered, it holds no legal value. The sale deed includes property details, payment terms, and signatures of both parties.

Ask for the Mother Deed

It is also called the chain of title. It shows the ownership history. A clean chain means no missing links. If the title passed through inheritance, gift, or sale, the document must mention it. This is one of the most important documents for property purchase in India.

RERA Registration Certificate

For under-construction flats, this is essential. RERA makes the builder accountable. It ensures the project has approvals and timelines. Ask for the RERA number and check it online. Projects without RERA registration may carry risk.

Approved Building Plan

The builder must have approval from the local town planning authority. This includes layout, floor count, and design. If the plan is not approved, the building is illegal. Avoid such properties even if they look finished.

Completion Certificate

This is issued after the building is fully constructed. It confirms the project followed the approved plan and safety norms. Without this, the structure is not legal. You cannot apply for an occupancy certificate without the CC.

Occupancy Certificate

This shows the building is ready for use. It is given after final inspection. Without it, you cannot get utilities like water or electricity. If you are buying a ready-to-move-in flat, ask for the OC before paying the full amount.

Encumbrance Certificate

Encumbrance Certificate confirms the property has no legal dues. It shows if the land or flat has been mortgaged or involved in legal claims. You can get it from the sub-registrar’s office. Check for at least 13 years of clear history.

Property Tax Receipts and Khata

Ask for the latest tax receipts to prove the owner has paid dues. Khata or equivalent (like Patta or RTC) shows the property is listed in municipal records. You need this for building permits, loans, and electricity or water supply.

NOCs from Authorities

The builder must have clearances from fire, environment, and electricity departments. These no-objection certificates show the project follows basic regulations. These are part of the documents required to buy a property in India.

Allotment and Possession Letters

The allotment letter confirms the flat number, payment plan and the possession letter specifies when the property is ready for handover. These documents are submitted when applying for a home loan or while claiming tax benefits. They are also required for interior work approvals and society registration.

• Match the name on the title deed with the seller’s ID

• Cross-check ownership in the local registration office

• Get legal help to review the documents

• Ask for copies and keep them safe

• Do not pay in cash without receipts

These steps are part of the checklist before buying a property in India. Do not skip any.

Buying a home is a major decision. Do not rush. Review every paper. The legal documents for buying property in India are not just formalities. They prove your right to own, build, and live in the space. Use this guide as your checklist.

It helps avoid future problems. Every point matters. The documents you check today protect the value of your property tomorrow. A good home is more than bricks. It is paperwork done right. Start with the right files before you lay the first stone. Make it a habit to check every item in the property documents to check before purchase.