Purchasing property in Ghatkopar, Mumbai, is a significant investment, and ensuring the legitimacy of property documents is crucial to avoid future legal complications. With the increasing digitization of services, verifying property papers has become more accessible. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to verifying property documents in Ghatkopar, ensuring your investment is secure.
Why Property Verification is Essential
Before delving into the verification process, it’s important to understand why property verification is necessary:
- Legal Ownership: Ensures the seller has the legal right to sell the property.
- Clear Title: Confirms the property is free from disputes or encumbrances.
- Regulatory Compliance: Validates that the property adheres to local zoning and building regulations.
- Financial Security: Protects against potential financial losses due to fraudulent transactions.
Essential Documents for Verification
Gather the following documents from the seller before initiating the verification process:
- Sale Deed: The primary document transferring ownership.
- Mother Deed: The original document tracing the property’s ownership lineage.
- Encumbrance Certificate: Indicates the property’s legal status and any existing liabilities.
- 7/12 Extract: For agricultural land, this document provides details about the land’s ownership and cultivation.
- Property Tax Receipts: Confirms that all taxes have been paid up to date.
- Occupancy Certificate (OC): Issued by the municipal corporation, it certifies that the property is fit for occupancy.
- Approved Building Plan: Validates that the construction complies with municipal regulations.
- No Objection Certificates (NOCs): From relevant authorities, especially if the property is part of a society or has shared amenities.
- Power of Attorney (if applicable): If someone is acting on behalf of the owner, this document authorizes them to do so.
Step-by-Step Verification Process
Step 1: Verify Ownership and Title
- Visit the Sub-Registrar’s Office: Access records to confirm the property’s ownership history.
- Conduct a Title Search: Review documents for any disputes or claims against the property.
Step 2: Check for Encumbrances
- Obtain the Encumbrance Certificate: This document will indicate if there are any legal dues or mortgages on the property.
Step 3: Validate Property Tax Payments
- Review Tax Receipts: Ensure all property taxes are paid up to date.
- Confirm with Municipal Records: Cross-check with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) records for accuracy.
Step 4: Inspect Building Approvals
- Obtain the Approved Building Plan: Verify that the construction aligns with the sanctioned plan.
- Check for Occupancy Certificate (OC): Ensure the property has been inspected and approved for occupancy by the BMC.
Step 5: Verify NOCs and Other Approvals
- Obtain NOCs: From relevant authorities, especially if the property is part of a housing society or involves shared amenities.
Step 6: Review Power of Attorney (if applicable)
- Verify Authenticity: Ensure the Power of Attorney is legally valid and grants the seller the authority to sell the property.
Online Verification Resources
Maharashtra’s government has digitized many property records, making online verification more accessible:
- Inspector General of Registration (IGR) Maharashtra: https://igrmaharashtra.gov.in/HomeLegalkart
- Maharashtra Land Records (Bhulekh): https://bhulekh.mahabhumi.gov.in/Zolvit
These portals allow you to verify documents such as 7/12 extracts, encumbrance certificates, and property tax receipts by entering details like survey numbers or owner names.
Role of Legal Professionals
While online resources are helpful, consulting a property lawyer can provide:
- Expert Analysis: Professionals can identify potential legal issues that may not be apparent to the untrained eye.
- Comprehensive Verification: Lawyers can conduct a thorough review of all documents and their legal implications.
- Legal Opinion: They can provide formal legal opinions on the property’s status, which is often required by financial institutions.
Costs Involved
The cost of property verification can vary based on factors such as:
- Complexity of the Property: Larger or more complex properties may require more extensive verification.
- Professional Fees: Lawyers or consultants may charge fees ranging from ₹6,000 to ₹9,000 or more, depending on the scope of services provided.
- Government Fees: Charges for obtaining official documents like encumbrance certificates or 7/12 extracts.
Timeframe for Verification
The duration of the verification process depends on:
- Availability of Documents: Prompt access to all necessary documents can expedite the process.
- Complexity of the Property’s History: Properties with a long or complicated ownership history may take longer to verify.
- Government Processing Times: Obtaining official documents from government offices can take time, depending on their workload.
Typically, the verification process can take anywhere from 5 to 8 days, but it’s advisable to allow for additional time to account for any unforeseen delays.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Incomplete Documentation: Ensure all necessary documents are provided to avoid delays.
- Neglecting Encumbrance Checks: Always verify that the property is free from legal or financial liabilities.
- Skipping Legal Consultation: Even if online resources are available, consulting a legal professional can provide added security.
- Rushing the Process: Take the time to thoroughly verify all aspects of the property to prevent future issues.
Source : Fulinspace.com