How to Read a Property Title Deed: Step-by-Step

Property title verification is the single most important step in any real estate transaction. A flawed title can lead to legal disputes that last decades. Here is how to verify a property title properly.

What is a Title Deed?

A title deed (also called a sale deed) is the legal document that proves ownership of a property. It must be registered at the Sub-Registrar's office under the Registration Act, 1908. An unregistered deed has no legal standing.

The 5 Steps to Title Verification

Step 1: Obtain the chain of title — Ask for all sale deeds for the last 30 years. The ownership chain must be unbroken from the original allotment to current owner.

Step 2: Verify at Sub-Registrar office — Visit the local Sub-Registrar office to independently confirm all deeds are registered and match what the seller has provided.

Step 3: Check Encumbrance Certificate (EC) — The EC from the Sub-Registrar shows all transactions on a property over a period. Ensure there are no mortgages, loans or legal disputes attached.

Step 4: Mutation records — Check municipal or Gram Panchayat records to confirm the property is in the seller's name for tax and utility purposes.

Step 5: Legal opinion — Have a qualified property lawyer review all documents and issue a title opinion before signing any agreement.

Brickwise handles complete title verification for all our recommended projects. Our legal team reviews all documentation before we recommend any plot. Call 9971116724 to learn more.