Facing Delays in Property Possession? Know Your Legal Options
Property buying selling

Facing Delays in Property Possession? Know Your Legal Options

The journey of buying a property is a significant milestone in life. However, for many homebuyers in India, the dream of a new home can turn into a nightmare due to unforeseen delays in possession. Builder delays have unfortunately become common, leaving buyers in difficult situations. But what can you do if you're caught in this situation? Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding your legal options if you’re facing property possession delays in India.

Understanding Builder-Buyer Agreements and Delays in Possession

When purchasing a property, the builder-buyer agreement outlines the expected date of possession. This document specifies the timeline by which the builder is supposed to hand over the property. However, sometimes builders fail to meet this deadline, which could be due to various reasons—genuine or otherwise. If the delay is not due to uncontrollable factors like natural disasters, the builder can be held accountable.

Legal Recourses for Buyers Facing Delays

Thankfully, there are several laws in India that protect buyers in cases of possession delays. Let’s explore each option to understand how you can seek relief.

1. Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA)

The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, popularly known as RERA, was established to protect homebuyers and bring transparency to the real estate sector.

Key Provisions Under RERA:

  • Compulsory Project Registration: Builders must register their projects with the state RERA authority before starting any sales or marketing. This ensures that only compliant builders can operate in the market.

  • Project Details and Timeline: Builders are required to publish details of their projects, including timelines, on the RERA website. Any delay beyond the stipulated time could lead to legal consequences.

  • Compensation or Refund: If the builder fails to deliver the property within the promised time, buyers can withdraw from the project and claim a full refund with interest. Alternatively, if the buyer wishes to continue, they can seek monthly compensation for the delay.

  • Complaint Filing: RERA allows buyers to file complaints if builders refuse compensation or fail to meet deadlines. RERA courts are mandated to address complaints within 60 days, although appeals can be filed if buyers are unsatisfied with the judgment.

If you’re considering filing a complaint under RERA, ensure that your builder and project are RERA-registered. Each state in India has its RERA authority, and the process for filing complaints may vary slightly.

2. Consumer Complaint for Delays in Possession

Another option available to buyers is filing a complaint with the Consumer Forum. If the property was purchased primarily for residential use, it qualifies as a consumer service, and buyers can seek compensation if there is a deficiency.

Steps to File a Consumer Complaint:

  1. Send a Legal Notice: Before filing a complaint, send a legal notice to the builder, specifying your grievance and giving them an opportunity to resolve it.

  2. Prepare Your Complaint: If the builder fails to respond satisfactorily, draft a detailed complaint including the builder's details, contract terms, and proof of payment.

  3. File the Complaint: Depending on the amount of your claim, file the complaint with the appropriate Consumer Forum (District, State, or National level).

Consumer courts tend to address such issues faster than civil courts, and they can provide relief such as refunds, compensation for losses, and monthly interest on delayed payments. Consumer courts are a reliable option if RERA authorities are not yet fully operational in your state.

3. Filing a Civil Suit or Writ Petition

In states where RERA authorities have not been established or are not fully functional, buyers may file a civil suit or a writ petition in the High Court. However, civil cases often take longer to resolve than consumer cases.

A civil suit may be filed in the court with jurisdiction over the area where the property is located or where the builder conducts business. Courts may order the builder to pay compensation, expedite project completion, or provide other relief as per the buyer’s demand.

4. Arbitration as an Alternative

Many builder-buyer agreements include an arbitration clause, allowing disputes to be resolved through an arbitrator instead of a court. Arbitration can be quicker, less formal, and is often less costly than litigation.

If arbitration is part of your agreement, you can approach an arbitrator to resolve the dispute. However, keep in mind that the arbitrator’s decision may still require enforcement through a civil court if the builder refuses to comply.

5. Criminal Action Against Fraudulent Builders

In severe cases, where the builder has fraudulently withheld possession, buyers can file criminal cases. Under the Indian Penal Code (IPC), offenses like fraud, criminal breach of trust, and cheating can be applied. Criminal cases might lead to severe penalties or imprisonment for the builder, although they don’t guarantee monetary compensation.

A criminal complaint is usually filed if there is clear evidence that the builder intentionally deceived buyers, misappropriated funds, or falsely promised possession. Buyers may file an FIR with the police or approach the magistrate if the police fail to act.

6. Insolvency Proceedings Through the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT)

If a builder is financially unable to complete the project, buyers can initiate insolvency proceedings under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016. This process is conducted through the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), where buyers can claim their investments if the builder’s assets are liquidated.

To file an insolvency petition, buyers typically need to have a disputed amount of over Rs. 1 lakh. While this process is legally complex, it provides buyers a way to retrieve their funds if the builder’s company goes bankrupt.

Consumer Court, RERA, or CREDAI: Which One Should You Approach?

Consumer Court

If your case involves primarily monetary compensation or a refund, and RERA authorities are not yet fully functional in your state, the Consumer Court may be the best choice. The Consumer Court has extensive experience dealing with consumer disputes and generally provides quicker relief.

RERA

Where available, RERA authorities are highly recommended for property possession disputes. RERA focuses on consumer protection within the real estate sector and has strict timelines for case resolution, often faster than consumer courts. Moreover, RERA can revoke a builder’s registration if they repeatedly fail to meet timelines.

CREDAI

For builders registered with CREDAI, buyers may approach this industry association, which has a grievance redressal mechanism. CREDAI aims to resolve disputes amicably and promote fair practices within the real estate sector.

Key Challenges Faced by Homebuyers Due to Possession Delays

  • Financial Losses: Buyers who rely on bank loans face dual financial burdens when possession is delayed—monthly EMIs for the under-construction property and rental expenses for alternate accommodations.

  • Emotional Distress: Delayed possession can cause significant stress and uncertainty, especially for those eagerly awaiting a new home.

  • Changes in Plans: Some builders may make significant alterations to the property layout or features without the buyer’s consent, further frustrating the purpose of the purchase.

Tips for Buyers to Protect Themselves Against Delays

  1. Thoroughly Review the Builder-Buyer Agreement: Ensure all terms, including possession deadlines, penalties for delay, and exit clauses, are explicitly mentioned.

  2. Check Builder’s Credibility: Research the builder’s track record, especially regarding project completion and delivery timelines.

  3. Understand Your Rights Under RERA: RERA provides various buyer-friendly provisions that ensure transparency and accountability from builders.

  4. Send a Legal Notice Promptly: In case of a delay, send a well-drafted legal notice to the builder. This establishes your intent to take legal action and may expedite a resolution.

  5. Hire a Lawyer for Legal Recourse: A qualified property lawyer can guide you through the complexities of the legal process, whether it involves Consumer Court, RERA, or other legal avenues.

Conclusion

Facing delays in property possession is an unfortunate reality for many homebuyers in India. However, with a clear understanding of legal options like RERA, Consumer Court, arbitration, and even criminal complaints, buyers can protect their investments and hold builders accountable.

Before deciding on a legal course of action, it’s wise to consult a property lawyer who can evaluate your case and guide you on the best course of action. With the right legal recourse, homebuyers have the power to secure justice and even claim compensation for the hardship caused by builder delays.

Legal Considerations to Keep in Mind Before Selling Your House
Property

Legal Considerations to Keep in Mind Before Selling Your House

Selling anything is a tedious task, let alone selling a house. What are the requisite documents for sale? What is the correct procedure? Are there any risks involved in the process? If one does not have answers to such questions, selling a house can become an ugly affair.

Law relating to Sale of Houses

Houses are a tangible piece of immovable property. The main legislation which governs the sale and transfer of property in India is the Transfer of Property Act, 1882 (hereafter referred to as "TPA"). Chapter III of TPA deals with the sale of immovable property.

  • Sections 54 and 55 of the TPA are of enormous relevance in our context. Let us discuss the crux of these provisions under the following headings:

Rights and Liabilities of the Seller - Section 55 of TPA

There are several rights and liabilities mentioned for both the buyer and seller. There are rights and duties regarding the seller, before and after selling his/her property. Let us discuss them under the following headings:

Before Sale of Property

The duties of a seller before selling his/her property are as follows:

People Also Read This: Online Property Registration

After-Sale of Property

There are a few duties of the seller after the sale of the property. They are as follows:

  • The seller is bound to deliver the possession of the property after the sale to the buyer.
  • Through the contract with the buyer, the seller's interest has professed to transfer to the buyer will exist, and the buyer will have the right to transfer the same.
  • If all of the purchase money has been paid by the buyer, the seller is bound to deliver all documents of title relating to the property in the seller's possession.

Documents required for selling your house

As already mentioned above, under TPA, the seller is mandatorily required to produce all the relevant documentation before the buyer. A bunch of property-related disputes arises due to the lack of proper documentation. Thus, it is crucial from both the seller's and buyer's perspectives to give the requisite attention to the documentation of the deal.

  • The documents required for the selling of a tangible immovable property (such as a house), are as follows:
  • Letter of allotment: This is the document that conferred the allotment of the property which is in possession of the seller, who had purchased this property from a relevant society or authority.
  • Sale Deed: All the original sale deeds from the previous owners of the property who have handed it down to the current owner (the seller). This helps in tracing the property title chain. The seller should have an original sale deed. It is compulsory under the law that the seller needs to have all the previous agreements.
  • Sanctioned Plan:  The seller also needs to have the approved building plan and occupation certificate by the local municipal authority or any other competent authority.
  • Society Documents: The seller must seek the permission of the relevant competent authorities (development authority or society) before selling the house. For example, if the seller lives in a gated community, then he/she must obtain a NOC (no-objection certificate) from the housing society or governing body.
  • Encumbrance certificate: This certificate is required as an indication of free title. This is because while buying a house or apartment, the buyer wants to ascertain no legal dues.
  • Sale Agreement: Lastly, but most importantly, after both the parties have arranged the documentation, the terms and conditions for the agreement for selling the property can be laid down. This agreement shall be the blueprint and precede the execution of the sale deed and hence is extremely important.

The procedure of selling your house

We've already discussed the documentation process, one of the most important parts of the procedure. There are other practical and/or legal aspects to the procedure, which includes the following:

  • Valuation of Your house: Make a good estimate of the value of your house. For this purpose, you can either consult a real estate agent or self-assess the property by researching the prevailing market rate in the society or locality where your house is located.
  • Find a buyer: The next step is to find a person who is ready to buy your house.
  • Intimate your intentions to the governing body: As mentioned already, you must seek approval from the housing society where the house is located by getting a NOC.
  • Prepare the house: You can now stage your house for potential buyers to visit. For this purpose, ideally, you should vacate the house and do renovation or repair work on the same.
  • Finally, list the property: Now, you can finally list the property for sale on online platforms or seek the help of brokers who can help you find buyers.

People Also Read This: When seller is not signing your property transfer papers: Deemed Conveyance is your option

Conclusion

Every seller needs to know such intricacies before proceeding to sell their house. Unless the seller is well-informed regarding such details, they can be taken for a ride by the buyer. The whole idea is to avoid being in that position as a seller.

Soumya Shekhar
Soumya Shekhar 03 min read 5005 Views
All you wanted to know about Online House Registration
Property

All you wanted to know about Online House Registration

If you have bought or otherwise acquired a house, this transaction needs to be registered. House registration is necessary for two reasons: 

  1. Every State maintains land records. The land record of every piece of land records the persons who have rights over that land. Hence, the land record for your house will reflect who has ownership over that house. For instance, if you are the owner, then it will mention you as the owner; if you have an easement over the land, then it will mention you as an easement-holder, and so on. 

  2. Unless you have inherited the house, the transaction by which you have acquired the house will not take effect until the transfer deed is registered. If this is the case, you need to register the house to acquire legal rights over it in the first place. 

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House Registration Process

You will have to register your house with the local Sub-Registrar of Assurances, who has jurisdiction over the locality in which your house is located. 

Most states now allow some steps of house registration online. Depending on your State, a house registry online will be available for some (but not all) house registration procedure steps. For the remaining step[s] of the online house registry, you will need to visit the Sub-Registrar’s Office. Even in states which allow the maximum number of steps online, you have to make a single visit to the Sub-Registrar’s office.

The process typically involves the following steps:

  1. Book an appointment. You will get an appointment letter. 

  2. Pay the prescribed registration fees. You will get a receipt for the fees paid. 

  3. Present/Upload a copy of the transfer deed (the legal document by which you acquired the property, such as a Sale Agreement) and the identity proofs of the parties and witnesses. 

  4. The parties, and the witnesses, have to be physically present at the Sub-Registrar’s office at the date, and time, mentioned in the appointment letter. If all documents are in order, the Sub-Registrar will register the deed and return the original deed with the deed's registration number mentioned on it. 

Depending on your State, Steps 1, 2, or 3 can be done online. However, in every State, for Step 4, the parties and the witnesses must be present. 

The online house registration procedure for a rented house is the same as the online house registration procedure for any other house. 

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Online House Registration Check List

This online house registry checklist will help you ensure that all the requirements of the house registration procedure fulfilled: 

  1. Ensure that the transfer deed (the legal document by which you have acquired your house, such as a Sale Deed, a Gift Deed, etc.) is, in writing, signed by the parties, attested by at least two independent witnesses, and executed on stamp paper of value equal to the stamp duty payable on the transaction. 

  2. Pay the registration fees, and take a receipt. If your State allows this step to be done online, carry the receipt with you when you visit the Sub-Registrar’s office. 

  3. Some states may require you to present a true copy of the transfer deed. The Registration Rules of your State will specify this and tell you how to make a true copy (if a true copy is required).

  4. If this step is allowed to be done online in your State, upload copies of photographs, and identity proofs, of the parties and the attesting witnesses. In any case, carry copies, and originals, of all these documents at the time of visiting the Sub-Registrar’s office. 

  5. Ensure that all the parties and the attesting witnesses are present at the Sub-Registrar’s office on the appointment date and time. 

  6. The original transfer deed will be returned to you. If registration has been successfully done, ensure that the registration number is mentioned on the original deed with the Sub-Registrar's seal and signature

People who read this Article also Consulted a Lawyer about Property Registration process. 

Soumya Shekhar
Soumya Shekhar 03 min read 1557 Views
Online Property Registration
Property

Online Property Registration

It is essential to register the transfer of property in India, under Section 17 of the Registration Act, 1908. This Act governs the registration of transfer of immovable property in India. Registration is compulsory because the person in whose name the property is registered is the rightful and legal owner of the property. Registering a property involves various aspects. Stamp duty is levied on the registration. Registration rules of each state are different and hence, the process of registration depends upon the state where the property is located.

The property description with the number it bears, area, pin code, the property type: flat, plot, agricultural, mode of ownership: purchase, gift, lease, owner’s personal details: Name, age, occupation, parent’s name, proof of property: Title deed, power of attorney, etc. are required at the time of registering the property.

Procedure for Registration of Property

Several states have their websites for online registration like Kerala, Odisha, West Bengal, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, etc. For instance, in Bangalore, there is Kaveri Online Services(https://kaverionline.karnataka.gov.in). You can register as a user on these property registration websites. You can enter the details, such as the date of execution of the sale deed, total number of parties, and other details as part of document registration. You also need to provide ID proof-details of witnesses and buyers, property value, and the nature of the property you seek to register.

You can download the registration form for your land and the application form, from the website of the concerned authority’s office in the state. You can also visit the office and obtain the registration and application form offline. Properties in both urban and rural areas come under the jurisdiction of the State Government and are managed under a Tehsil (taluka or mandal). The e-registration of property (housing or commercial rental) is also on similar lines. The process will only differ if the land is vacant or occupied.

You will need to furnish the following documents at the time of registering the property:

  • Identity proof of parties- Aadhar Card, PAN card etc.)
  • Two passport photographs of parties involved
  • Sale deed
  • Power of authority in case the party is representing someone else.
  • If a company is a party then power of attorney/letter of authority, along with a copy of the resolution of the company’s board
  • property card
  • Acknowledgement of payment of stamp duty
  • Registration fee

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Registration of Old Property

Registration of old property was slightly different than the properties bought recently. While the law governing was the same, the facilities of online procedure were not available. Registration should be completed within four months of execution of the transfer. Before technology was used, the documents submitted took four months to be returned from the registrar’s office. However, the new registration rules in 2019 and 2020 enable the documents to be returned the same day. It is easier to register a property in the present times than it was to register an old property.

Those who read this Article also Consulted a Lawyer about Property Registration process. 

Types of Land Registration

Registering property is the last and most important step after one has bought the property. If your property is not registered in your name then it would be difficult to prove ownership in the courts. If in the future some dispute arises then it is essential to have the property registered in your name. There are various ways in which you can register immovable property such as land:

1. Full Property Value: It is one of the simplest and most straightforward ways to execute a property registry. You register your property at the full value which you have paid for the same.

2. Property Value is Higher than Circle Rate: You can register at the full property value if the value is higher than the circle rate.

3. Property Value is Less than Circle Rate: You may register a property which is less in value than the circle rate. However, the difference between the circle rate and the actual sale value of the property is considered as income and is taxed at rates appropriate to the income slab.

4. Bank Valuation: While In some cases, banks insist borrowers register the property at either full property value or higher value.

5. Sale Certificate: Applicable only in the case of bank auction properties.

6. Undivided Share Value/Sale Agreement Value: To register a property at Undivided Share (UDS) is the most common practice. For an under-construction property, the builder signs two agreements with the buyer which are the Sale Agreement and Construction Agreement. The construction agreement is towards the construction cost of the flat/property. Builders register the property at sale agreement value or UDS. This practice is adopted to save stamp duty costs.

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New rules for Property Registration in India 2020

The documents to be registered must be presented in four months starting from the registration date. As of 2020, due to computerization, copies of the documents are available on the same day. If a property is not registered, it will not serve as valid evidence in court. Unregistered property has no legal validity. In case the property is acquired by the government one cannot be entitled to compensation if the property has not been registered.

Stamp Duty Charges & Property Registration in India, 2020

Stamp duty which is a tax imposed by the government on the parties dealing in property transfer and is charged by the central and state government. The purchasers must pay the stamp duty charges on the agreement of sales that falls under Section 3 of the Indian Stamp Act, 1899.

Stamp Duty charges differ upon state rules also depends upon:

  • Property Status: Old or New
  • Property Location: rural area, City area, etc.
  • Owner’s age
  • Owner’s gender
  • Property utilization: Commercial or Residential
  • Property type: Flat or house

Property Registration Act

If you have entered into a transaction for the sale of immovable property and the value of such property exceeds INR 100, You need to register the same. Section 17 of the Registration Act, 1908 makes such registration compulsory. The Registration Act also provides for which documents are essential for the registration of property and which are optional. Fees for registration vary according to the state. If a property is not registered then it cannot be produced in the court as proof of ownership. Property should ideally be registered within four months of execution of the transfer. A maximum condonation of further four months may be allowed with the penalty for delay in registration. But the document needs to be presented for registration within eight months of execution of the transfer. 

Property registration is a complex procedure and ideally, help from a lawyer should be taken for the same. You should not delay registering your property and get the same registered within the stipulated time.

Soumya Shekhar
Soumya Shekhar 05 min read 5802 Views
DDA Flat Registration Scheme is a yearly "affordable housing" event
Property

DDA Flat Registration Scheme is a yearly "affordable housing" event

This post is one of the most frequently talked about topics of discussion when it comes to affordable housing. Yup, you guessed it right, we are talking about the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) Housing Scheme that is announced by the government on a yearly basis. This topic garners keen interest not only because affordable houses are offered to applicants via lucky draw but the scheme also covers a wide stratum of people, whether they are from the general category or from economically weaker groups or the reserved sections of the society like SC, ST, OBC, etc. As we progress in this post, you will have more insights on several aspects related to the DDA Flats Registration Scheme 2021 – what is the scheme about, its benefits and the general eligibility conditions, etc.

What is the DDA Flat Housing Registration scheme?

Briefly mentioning, under the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojna, DDA recently announced the housing registration scheme for the year 2021 wherein the authority has put for sale, more than 1300 flats of various types located at different locations in New Delhi. The sole aim of the scheme is to enable people to buy affordable houses as the houses being offered by DDA are priced cheaper compared to the houses sold by private real estate developers.

The ongoing pandemic has seen massive digitization of government services. DDA Housing Registration Scheme for 2021 has also followed the same path. The authority has completely automated the flats registration process. Some of the following online services are likely to be provided by the DDA to potential house buyers through its Awaas software:

  • Initiating the Online flat registration process by prospective buyers

  • Filling up the online flat registration form

  • Paying flat registration charges and fees

  • Conducting draw of lots under the supervision of authorized government officials

  • Issuing allotment and/or possession letters to the allottees

An important point to note in this scheme is that the allottee(s) may need to visit the office of the DDA for completing the conveyance deed execution process in his or her name.

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Type of Flats being offered under the scheme and related registration charges

There are broadly four categories or types of flats that have been put for sale by the DDA under the current scheme. They are:

  • Higher Income Group (HIG) – The registration charges or application amount to be paid for this category of flats are Rs. 2 Lakhs.

  • Middle Income Group (MIG) – The registration charges or application amount to be paid for this category of flats are Rs. 2 Lakhs.

  • Lower Income Group (LIG) – The registration charges or application amount to be paid for this category of flats are Rs. 1 Lakh.

  • Economically Weaker Section (EWS) - The registration charges or application amount to be paid for this category of flats are Rs. 25 Thousand.

Some general conditions to be noted are:

  • The application once submitted cannot be withdrawn.

  • The spouses (husband and wife) can apply either separately or jointly with their spouse(s). However, if they apply separately/individually and both applications are selected in a lucky draw, only one flat will be allotted as per regulations.

  • The allotment of flats will happen via draw of lots, the date of which will be announced by DDA in due course.

  • The date of allotment will also be announced soon by the DDA.

  • The possession of flats will be given after allotment and receipt of the first payment by the DDA.

  • The DDA will initiate the refund of payment for an unsuccessful draw after 30 days from the date of draw of lots.

  • It is advisable to regularly visit the DDA website for information on the ‘lucky draw’.

Those who read this Article also Consulted a Lawyer about DDA Schemes. 

What are the eligibility conditions for putting a DDA housing scheme application?

As per DDA, any applicant interested in putting up an application needs to fulfill the following criteria:

  • Only a citizen of India can apply for the scheme.

  • Applicant must be over 18 years of age.

  • Applicant must not be an existing leasehold or freehold owner or joint owner of residential house or plot of size 67 square meters in Delhi, New Delhi, or Delhi cantonment.

  • Applicant must possess an active bank account.

  • Applicant must also have PAN Card.

  • Annual income of applicant applying under EWS category must not exceed Rs. 3 lakhs.

  • Household income of EWS category applicants should not be more than Rs. 10 lakhs.

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What documents are required for submission along with the application?

The applicant needs to submit the self-attested copies of the following documents:

  • Address Proof that may include documents like Driving License, Passport, Voter ID, Electricity Bill, Aadhaar Card, etc.

  • PAN Card

  • Bank Statement or Passbook

  • Income Tax Return filed for the assessment year

  • Reserved Category certificate, as applicable, issued by a competent government authority

Conclusion

The DDA Housing Scheme is a good opportunity for all those who are planning to buy a reasonable house in Delhi. The scheme has been created keeping in mind the budgetary constraints of people who dream to own a home. With several nationalized government and private banks providing housing loans at prevailing interest rates, the scheme definitely has the potential of being economical for the common citizen. We suggest you evaluate all your options including the legalities involved and register before the deadline ends if it fits your bill.

Nikhil Chachra
Nikhil Chachra 04 min read 1090 Views
Know about flat Registration Rules in India
Property

Know about flat Registration Rules in India

Owning a home is a dream for many. But, did you know that you need to Register your flat after you buy it? A flat needs to be registered in accordance with the law prevalent in the state in which it is bought. Every state in India has different rules for Flat Registration. Builders need to register their property under RERA, whereas buyers need to register their flat with the local registrar. Let us examine what all is required to register a flat.

Importance of Flat Registry

Have you bought a flat recently? It is necessary to register this transaction. Registry of your flat is necessary for 2 reasons:

A flat is an immovable property. Thus, buying a flat is a transaction of immovable property. Such transactions do not take effect unless registered. Hence, it is necessary to register for the purchase of your flat.

Your flat, quite obviously, is standing on a particular land. As the owner of the flat, you have certain rights over that land. Once you register your flat, the state's land records will record your name as the lawful owner of your flat. This is a crucial piece of evidence which records what rights you have over your flat.

You can also register an under-construction flat. The common misconception is that a flat cannot be registered before possession and that it can only be registered after possession. But, this is not the case. In fact, banks insist on the registration of under-construction flats before granting home loans. While such registration protects the interest of banks, the entire risk is put on the shoulders of the homebuyer.

People also read: What is the right that a land ownership certificate gives to its holder?

Procedure for Flat Registration

When you bought your flat, you and the builder/seller will have executed a Sale Deed. This Sale Deed needs to be registered with the local Sub-Registrar of Assurances, who has jurisdiction over the locality in which your flat is located. Flat agreements in most states are registered online; however, the final step needs to be completed in the registrar's office.

The entire process typically involves the following steps:

  • Book an appointment for registering the Sale Deed: You need to register on the government's website and create a Login ID in most states. Then you need to upload the documents and book the appointment.
  • Pay the prescribed registration fees.
  • Attach copies of the Sale Deed and the identity proofs of the parties and the attesting witnesses.
  • The parties, and their attesting witnesses, have to be physically present at the Sub-Registrar's office at the date, and time, of the appointment.

Depending on which state your flat is located in, some of these steps can be conducted online. However, in every state, Step 4 must be conducted offline: one visit to the Sub-Registrar's office for this purpose is necessary.

For instance, for flat registration in Bangalore and the rest of Karnataka, Steps 1, 2, and 3 of the flat registration process can be conducted online on the Kaveri Online Portal. Similarly, for registering a flat in Pune and the rest of Maharashtra, Steps 1, 2, and 3 of the flat registration process can be conducted online on the IGR Maharashtra Portal.

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Flat Registration Fee & Stamp Duty Charges

The exact registration cost for your flat will vary from state to state. Typically, the registration cost is about 1 - 3% of the market value of the flat.

Note that the flat's market value need not be the same price at which you have bought it. The sale price for your flat was determined between you and the builder/seller. This price can be quite literally anything. However, the market value of the flat is fixed and is calculated according to the rules of the state in which the flat is located. Most states now have online calculators available, which will give you a fairly precise estimate of the registration fees of your flat.

Documents Required for Registration of Flat

Those who read this Article also Consulted a Lawyer about Flat Registration process. 

The following documents are required for the registry of flats:

  • Appointment letter, obtained after booking an appointment with the respective Sub-Registrar's office.
  • Proof of payment of the required registration fees.
  • The original Sale Deed for your flat.
  • Identity proofs of the parties to, and the attesting witnesses of, the Sale Deed.
  • Copy of the Possession Letter issued by the seller/builder.