What Are the Legal Documents Required for Buying a Property in Chennai

Buying a property is a significant financial commitment, and it is crucial to verify all legal documents before finalizing the purchase. Having the right paperwork helps in preventing disputes and confirms the authenticity of the transaction. In this article, we will discuss the essential legal documents required when purchasing a property in Chennai.

Title Deed

The title deed is one of the most important documents when purchasing a property. It serves as proof of ownership and establishes the seller’s right to transfer the property. Before proceeding, it is necessary to verify that the title is clear and free from any legal disputes. The document should be examined to confirm that it is in the seller’s name and there are no encumbrances.

Sale Deed

The sale deed is a primary legal document that acts as evidence of property transfer from the seller to the buyer. It must be registered with the local sub-registrar office to validate the ownership. Before signing, the buyer should ensure that all details, including property dimensions and agreed terms, are correctly mentioned.

Encumbrance Certificate

An encumbrance certificate confirms that the property is free from financial liabilities, such as mortgages or legal dues. It is essential to obtain this document from the sub-registrar office, as it provides assurance that the property is not pledged against any loan or under dispute.

Patta and Chitta Documents

For land purchases, Patta and Chitta documents play a crucial role in verifying ownership. Patta is a revenue record issued in the owner's name, while Chitta provides details about the property type, such as whether it is agricultural or non-agricultural land. Both documents are essential to establish rightful ownership.

Building Plan Approval

If purchasing an apartment or an independent house, it is necessary to check whether the building plan has been approved by the relevant authority, such as the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) or the Directorate of Town and Country Planning (DTCP). Unauthorized constructions may lead to legal issues in the future.

Completion Certificate and Occupancy Certificate

A completion certificate is issued by the local municipal authority after verifying that a building has been constructed as per approved plans. The occupancy certificate, on the other hand, certifies that the property is suitable for occupation and complies with local regulations. These documents are necessary when buying newly constructed properties in Chennai.

Property Tax Receipts

Verifying property tax receipts helps in confirming that the seller has paid all dues to the municipal authorities. Any outstanding property tax can become a liability for the new owner. Checking past payment records is a crucial step before proceeding with the transaction.

No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Relevant Authorities

A No Objection Certificate (NOC) may be required from various authorities, depending on the property type. If the property is within a housing society, an NOC from the society is necessary. For properties near water bodies or government lands, an NOC from environmental or revenue departments might be required.

Power of Attorney (If Applicable)

If the property is being sold by someone acting on behalf of the owner, a power of attorney document should be examined. This legal document authorizes the person to execute the sale on the owner's behalf. It is essential to verify that the power of attorney is valid and registered.

Home Loan Clearance Certificate (If Previously Mortgaged)

If the seller had taken a loan on the property, a loan clearance certificate from the lending bank must be obtained. This document confirms that all outstanding dues have been settled and the property is free from financial obligations.

RERA Registration Details

For newly developed properties in Chennai, it is advisable to check if the project is registered under the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA). This provides an additional layer of security, ensuring that the project follows regulatory guidelines.

Conclusion

Verifying legal documents is a crucial step when purchasing a property. Missing or incorrect paperwork can lead to future complications. Reviewing all necessary documents carefully will help in making a safe and informed purchase. With the right verification, buying properties in Chennai can be a smooth and secure process.