How to verify property title in Delhi
A step-by-step approach to checking that the seller really owns what they are selling — and that nothing is attached to it.
Title verification answers one question: can the seller legally transfer clear ownership to you?
Documents to collect
- Chain of sale deeds going back at least 30 years, or to the original allotment or lease
- Conversion deed if the property was leasehold
- Mutation in MCD records
- Property tax receipts
- Sanctioned building plan and completion certificate
- Will, probate or succession documents if the property was inherited
- Relinquishment deeds if family members gave up their share
Searches to run
- Sub-Registrar search for registered transactions on the property
- Encumbrance — bank loans or mortgages
- Litigation — court cases involving the property or the sellers
Red flags
- Gaps in the chain
- GPA or agreement-based transfers instead of registered sale deeds
- Mismatched names or areas across documents
- Seller unwilling to share originals for inspection
Get a lawyer's opinion
For any significant purchase, a written title report from a property lawyer is worth the fee.
We share the key documents for every property we list before the first visit. See our services.
How long does verification take?
A straightforward title search usually takes one to two weeks. Older properties with inheritance or conversion history can take longer.
Special cases
- Inherited property: check the will and probate, or the succession certificate, and relinquishment deeds from all legal heirs.
- Company-owned property: check the board resolution authorising the sale.
- Property with a loan: get the bank's outstanding-balance letter and arrange the loan closure and release of original documents at registration.
- Power of attorney sale: make sure the power of attorney is valid, registered and specific to the sale.
Who does the checking?
A property lawyer prepares the title report. Banks also run their own legal check before sanctioning a loan, which is a useful second opinion.
Cost of verification
Lawyers' fees vary with complexity. Compared with the value of a South Delhi home, it is a small cost for significant protection.
Frequently asked questions
Is a bank's approval enough? It helps, but banks protect their own interest. An independent lawyer works for you.
