Most property disputes in India come from documents nobody checked. A proper title check takes a few days and a modest legal fee, and it protects the largest purchase of your life.
Title and ownership
- Sale deed / title deed in the seller's name, registered at the sub-registrar office.
- Chain of title for at least 30 years where possible: every earlier sale, gift, partition or inheritance.
- Mutation in the local body or revenue records showing the seller as owner.
- For inherited property: succession certificate, will with probate where needed, or a family settlement with all heirs' consent.
Encumbrances
- Encumbrance certificate (EC) from the sub-registrar for 13–30 years, showing any mortgages or other registered transactions.
- If there is a loan, the bank's letter of outstanding amount and a plan to close it at registration.
- A search for court cases in the seller's name and the property address, where possible.
Approvals
- Land use and conversion orders for the land.
- Approved layout and building plans from the development authority or local body.
- RERA registration for new projects.
- Occupancy or completion certificate for ready buildings.
Taxes and dues
- Property tax / urban assessment receipts up to date.
- Electricity and water bills paid.
- No-dues certificate and transfer permission from the society or association.
For new projects
- Builder–buyer agreement in the RERA model format.
- Allotment letter, payment schedule and the bank's approval of the project if you take a loan.
Tip:Never rely only on photocopies. See the originals before registration and match every detail: names, areas, boundaries and survey numbers.
Our verification
Listings marked Verified on ATTPL Realty have had their title, approvals and ownership checked by our team. You can also ask us to check a property you found elsewhere through our legal and documentation service.
Frequently asked questions
What is an encumbrance certificate?
A certificate from the sub-registrar listing registered transactions on a property, such as sales and mortgages, for a chosen period.
How many years of title should be checked?
Lawyers usually check at least 30 years of the title chain where records allow.
Is an occupancy certificate necessary?
Yes for ready buildings. Without it, utility connections, loans and resale can become difficult.
This article is general information, written in November 2026, and is not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules, rates and limits change; please confirm the current position with the authority concerned or a qualified professional before you act.
