Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. But before you get swept away by the interiors or location, verifying the legal side of things is crucial.
Wondering what documents to check before buying a flat from builder? Or looking for a full list of documents to check before buying a flat or house?
This guide will walk you through the most important legal documents required for purchase of property in India. From title deeds to approvals, we’ll break down all the things to check before buying a house in India—so you can move in with peace of mind.
How to Check Property Legality Before Buying—A Homebuyer’s Checklist
Buying a house is a big milestone. Whether it’s your first home or a new investment, one thing you must not overlook is the legal check of the property. A beautiful home in a perfect location means nothing if the paperwork isn’t clean. So, let’s walk through the list of documents to check before buying a flat or house in India.
Source: Chhabria Housing
This guide is made to help you avoid future legal trouble and make a smart, secure decision.
1. Title Deed—Know Who Really Owns the Property
The title deed is the most important legal document. It proves that the seller or builder has legal ownership of the property.
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What to check:
- The name of the current owner
- Type of ownership (sole, joint, leasehold, freehold)
- If the title is clear or disputed
Tip: Always ask for the original title deed, not just a copy.
2. Sale Deed—The Final Proof of Sale
The Sale Deed is the document that officially transfers ownership from the seller to you.
Why it’s important:
- It’s your main proof of ownership.
- It includes terms and conditions agreed upon during the sale.
Note: Don’t sign the sale deed without legal consultation. Also, make sure it is registered with the local sub-registrar.
3. Encumbrance Certificate—Ensure Property is Debt-Free
The Encumbrance Certificate (EC) confirms whether the property is free from any legal dues or loans.
What to check:
- No loans pending on the property
- No legal disputes
- No third-party claims
Where to get it: Sub-registrar’s office or online (varies by state).
4. Property Tax Receipts—Proof of No Dues
Always ask for the latest property tax receipts. It ensures the seller has paid all dues to the local municipal body.
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Things to check:
- Name on the receipt matches the seller
- No pending tax bills
5. Approved Building Plan—Especially for Flats
When buying a flat, ask for the approved building plan sanctioned by the local municipal authority.
Why this matters:
- It confirms the builder followed legal construction norms.
- If there’s illegal construction, the building might face demolition.
6. Completion and Occupancy Certificates
Completion Certificate (CC)—Issued by the local authority once the construction is completed as per plan.
Occupancy Certificate (OC) – Given after inspection, confirming the building is safe to live in.
Why they’re important:
- Without OC, you may not get water or electricity connections.
- Required for home loans and resale.
7. RERA Registration Details
As per the Real Estate Regulation Act (RERA), every real estate project must be registered.
Source: Chhabria Housing
What to check:
- Check the RERA ID on the state RERA website.
- Ensure the builder has followed all compliance rules.
Tip: RERA-registered properties are generally safer investments. You can also check out another luxurious project of the prestigious Sugee Group that is located in Worli, which is Sugee Sea Krest, It is also a RERA-approved project like others.
8. Allotment Letter and Builder-Buyer Agreement
When buying from a builder, these two documents are key.
Allotment Letter—Issued when you book a flat; it mentions the flat number, cost, and payment plan.
Builder-Buyer Agreement— It’s a legal agreement between you and the builder mentioning construction timelines, penalty clauses, etc.
Make sure:
- Everything discussed is mentioned in writing.
- There are no hidden charges.
9. Mutation Certificate—For Name Transfer
After the purchase, the property needs to be updated in the local municipal records in your name. This process is called mutation.
Why it’s important:
- Helps in property tax payment
- Necessary for resale in the future
10. Khata Certificate/Extract—For Properties in Karnataka and Some States
This document shows that the property is recorded in the local authority’s records and is suitable for construction or resale.
Why it matters:
- Needed for property tax payment and electricity/water connections
Bonus Tips—Other Things to Check Before Buying a House in India
- Legal advice: Always consult a real estate lawyer before signing anything.
- Builder’s track record: Check past projects, delivery timeline, and online reviews.
- Loan approvals: Prefer properties pre-approved by reputed banks.
- Verify identity: Cross-check seller’s ID proof and PAN card.
No-objection certificates (NOCs): Especially for older buildings, ask for NOCs from electricity, water, and pollution boards.
Looking for expert assistance in finding the perfect home? Chhabria Housing, your trusted real estate partner for the latest price details and exclusive offers.
A Handy Summary Checklist
Here’s a quick list of documents to check before buying a flat or house:
- Title Deed
- Sale Deed
- Encumbrance Certificate
- Property Tax Receipts
- Approved Building Plan
- Completion & Occupancy Certificate
- RERA Registration
- Allotment Letter (for builder flats)
- Builder-Buyer Agreement
- Mutation Certificate
- Khata Certificate (if applicable)
- NOCS from local authorities
Don’t Just Fall for the Looks, Check the Legal Hooks!
Buying a property is more than just finding the right location or a well-designed flat—it’s about making sure the legal foundation is rock solid. Ignoring paperwork can lead to serious problems down the road.
Whether you’re purchasing your first home or investing in real estate, always double-check all the legal documents required for purchase of property. This includes everything from the title deed and sale deed to the occupancy certificate and builder approvals.
Still wondering what documents to check before buying a flat from builder? Or feeling overwhelmed by the list of documents to check before buying a flat? Don’t worry—professional help can make all the difference.
For a hassle-free homebuying experience, it’s always smart to work with trusted experts who ensure that all things to check before buying a house in India are properly verified.
At Chhabria Housing, we don’t just offer luxurious properties—we deliver peace of mind. Every project we offer is backed by complete legal clarity, transparent documentation, and expert guidance. So, if you’re looking for a safe, secure, and legally sound home purchase, Chhabria Housing is here to help you make the right move.
Let your next step be a confident one—with Chhabria Housing by your side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: The key legal documents required for purchase of property in India include the title deed, sale deed, encumbrance certificate, approved building plan, property tax receipts, completion certificate, occupancy certificate, and RERA registration details. For flats from builders, allotment letters and builder-buyer agreements are also essential.
Ans: When buying a flat from a builder, you should verify the RERA registration, approved building plan, allotment letter, builder-buyer agreement, completion and occupancy certificates, and title deed. Always ensure the builder has obtained necessary NOCs and has a clean legal record.
Ans: The encumbrance certificate confirms that the property is free from any legal dues, loans, or mortgages. It’s one of the most important documents to check before buying a flat or independent house in India.
Ans: Yes, under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, RERA registration is mandatory for most real estate projects. It helps ensure transparency and protects buyers from fraudulent practices. Always check the builder’s RERA ID before investing.
Ans: Before buying a house, check the property’s ownership title, sale deed, building approvals, tax receipts, encumbrance certificate, and occupancy certificate. If you’re buying from a builder, verify the RERA registration and all agreements in writing.
Ans: Absolutely! At Chhabria Housing, we ensure that every property listed with us is legally verified, with all necessary approvals and documentation in place. Our team offers full support to help you understand what documents to check before buying a flat from builder or an independent home, making your buying journey smooth and stress-free.