Documents to check before buying a flat in Bengaluru

A home is the biggest purchase most families make. Before paying a booking amount, ask the builder for these documents, or have a property lawyer review them.

For every project

• Title deed and mother deed: show the builder or landowner legally owns the land, with the chain of ownership.
• Encumbrance certificate (EC): confirms the land is free of mortgages and legal dues for the last 13–30 years.
• Khata: the property's record with the local authority. Prefer projects whose land has an A Khata.
• Land conversion order: agricultural land must be converted for residential use.
• Sanctioned building plan: approved by the planning authority (such as BDA, BMRDA or the city corporation). Check the number of floors matches what is being built.
• Commencement certificate: permission to start construction.
• K-RERA registration for the project (see how to check it).

For ready to move homes

• Occupancy certificate (OC) or completion certificate: confirms the building was built as approved and is fit to live in. Banks and future buyers will ask for it.
• Utility connections: water, electricity and sewage approvals.

In the agreement

• Exact carpet area, price per sq ft and the full payment schedule
• Possession date and the penalty if the builder is late
• Car parking, club charges and maintenance deposits written down

Squaro Apex can collect these documents from the builder for any project we list. Talk to an advisor.