Documents to Check Before Buying a Property in Delhi

Before you pay a booking amount, ask to see the title documents, the approved building plan, the builder's permissions and proof that no dues or disputes are attached. Take copies, and have a property lawyer read them. Here is the checklist.

1. Title and ownership documents

The seller or builder must be able to show they own the land and can sell it.

• Sale deed or other document that gave them ownership
• Chain of earlier ownership documents, where available
• Proof that the land is not under any dispute or court case

2. Approved building plan

Ask for the sanctioned plan and compare it with what is actually being built: number of floors, size of each home and common areas. Any difference is a question to put to the builder in writing.

3. Builder's permissions and completion papers

Depending on the project and stage, ask which permissions have been obtained and which are still pending. For a finished building, ask about the completion or occupancy papers. Do not rely on a verbal assurance.

4. RERA registration, if it applies

Larger projects need to be registered with the real estate regulator. Ask whether yours does, and if so, get the registration number and check it on the regulator's website.

5. Encumbrance and loan status

Confirm the property is free of mortgages or other claims. If the builder has taken a loan on the project, ask for the lender's permission or no-objection letter for sale.

6. Agreement to sell and payment terms

Read the agreement before signing. Check the total price, what it includes, the payment schedule, the possession date and what happens if the date slips.

7. Receipts and tax papers

• Receipts for every payment you make, in the right name
• Property tax, electricity and water bill status
• Builder's GST details, where applicable

8. Registration of the sale

The sale must be registered in your name with the sub-registrar after paying stamp duty and registration charges. Ask the builder in advance which registration document you will receive and when. The registered document, not a receipt or a power of attorney, is what proves ownership.

9. Possession, fittings and common areas

Before taking possession, check the fittings and finishes against the agreement. Confirm what you are getting for the lift, parking, terrace and common areas.

Red flags

• The seller will not show original documents
• The price is far below the market for the area
• Pressure to pay cash or to pay before documents are shared
• Differences between the plan and the building that nobody can explain
• A power of attorney offered in place of a registered sale

A simple routine

1. Ask for the full document list in writing
2. Have a property lawyer review it
3. Get every promise added to the agreement
4. Pay by traceable bank transfer and keep receipts
5. Register the sale before you move in

This checklist is general guidance, not legal advice. Delhi rules and local practice can change, so confirm the details with a qualified lawyer before you buy.