Purchasing property in India is one of life's biggest investments, yet many buyers overlook critical legal verifications that could save them from future disputes, financial losses, and legal complications. At 360 Properties Hub, we've witnessed countless cases where thorough due diligence could have prevented costly mistakes. Here are the five essential legal checks every property buyer must complete before signing on the dotted line.
These verification steps aren't just recommendations—they're your financial and legal safety net in India's complex real estate landscape. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, these checks form the foundation of a secure property transaction.
"The best time to discover a legal issue with a property is before you buy it, not after you've paid for it. Due diligence today prevents litigation tomorrow."
Rittik Sadhukhan, 360 Properties Hub
1. Title Verification & Chain of Ownership
The title deed is your proof of ownership, but verifying its authenticity and tracing the complete ownership chain is crucial. This involves examining all previous transactions for at least 30 years to ensure there are no gaps, disputes, or illegal transfers.
- Verify original title documents at the registrar's office
- Check for any mortgage, lien, or encumbrance on the property
- Ensure all previous transfers were legally executed
- Confirm the seller's legal right to sell the property
2. RERA Registration & Project Approvals
For under-construction properties, RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority) registration is mandatory. This check protects you from project delays, financial irregularities, and ensures the developer has obtained all necessary approvals.
- Verify RERA registration number and project details
- Check building plan approvals from local authorities
- Confirm environmental clearances if applicable
- Review project completion timeline and penalty clauses
3. Encumbrance Certificate Verification
An encumbrance certificate provides a complete transaction history of the property, revealing all sales, mortgages, and legal proceedings. This document is essential for identifying any hidden liabilities or disputes.
- Obtain EC for the last 30 years minimum
- Check for any pending litigation or court cases
- Verify all stamp duty and registration fee payments
- Ensure no unauthorized construction or violations
4. Physical Survey & Boundary Verification
Physical verification ensures the property boundaries match legal documents and there are no encroachments. This step is crucial for avoiding future boundary disputes with neighbors or authorities.
- Conduct professional survey using original survey settlement records
- Verify property dimensions match the sale deed
- Check for any encroachment by neighbors or on neighbors' land
- Confirm access roads and utility connections are legal
5. Tax Compliance & Statutory Clearances
Ensuring all taxes are paid and statutory requirements are met protects you from inheriting the seller's liabilities. This includes property tax, water tax, and any applicable municipal charges.
- Verify all property tax payments are current
- Check water and sewerage connection compliance
- Ensure electricity connection is legally transferred
- Confirm no pending dues with housing society or maintenance
Professional Legal Support: Your Investment Protection
While this checklist provides a comprehensive framework, each property transaction has unique complexities that require expert evaluation. At 360 Properties Hub, our legal specialists conduct thorough due diligence, prepare detailed verification reports, and ensure your property purchase is legally sound and financially secure.
Don't let legal oversights turn your dream property into a nightmare. Contact our team for professional property verification services that give you complete peace of mind and protect your investment for years to come.
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