Planning to Buy a Flat? Don’t Miss These 6 Essential Documents!
In today’s fast-paced world, owning a home is a dream for almost everyone. After a long and tiring day, people want a peaceful space they can call their own. With increasing urban development, many people prefer buying flats instead of building individual homes.
However, most buyers make the mistake of finalizing a flat by looking only at its interior design, amenities, or location. The biggest factor, which is often ignored, is the legal documentation of the property. Incomplete or incorrect documents can lead to serious legal troubles in the future.
If you are planning to buy your dream flat, this article will guide you through the six most important documents you must check before making the deal. Proper knowledge can save you from fraud, losses, and legal issues.
1. Sale Deed – The Most Crucial Document
The Sale Deed is the primary legal document for any property purchase.
Why is the Sale Deed important?
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It confirms that the ownership of the property has been legally transferred to you.
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It serves as the official proof of the agreement between the buyer and the seller.
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In case of disputes, the sale deed acts as strong legal evidence in court.
Important things to check
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The sale deed must be registered in your name.
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Ensure the seller’s details, property details, and payment details are mentioned clearly.
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Check if there are any unwanted clauses that may create problems later.
If the sale deed is not registered, your ownership cannot be considered legally valid.
2. Mother Deed – The Ownership History of the Property
A Mother Deed is an essential document that helps determine the complete history of ownership.
What does the Mother Deed contain?
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Details of previous owners
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How the property was transferred over the years
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Any disputes or changes in ownership
Banks also require this document while approving a home loan.
Where can you get the Mother Deed?
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Local Tehsil office
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Land record department
If the original mother deed is missing, you can apply for a certified copy from the land authority.
3. Sale and Purchase Agreement
A safe real-estate transaction requires a proper written agreement between the buyer and seller.
Why is this agreement important?
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It includes all terms and conditions agreed upon by both parties.
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It specifies property cost, payment schedule, and mode of payment.
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Construction timeline, handover date, penalties, and responsibilities are mentioned clearly.
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It protects both buyer and seller in case of disputes.
This document must be signed by both parties and witnessed properly.
4. Building Approval Plan (Layout Approval)
Before construction begins, the builder must obtain approval from local authorities. A Building Approval Plan ensures the property is legal.
What does it include?
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Approved building layout
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Structural design
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Parking, open space, and height approval
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Compliance with safety regulations
Why is it important?
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It confirms that the construction has been carried out with proper permission.
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Without approval, the building may be considered illegal.
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Future municipal services like water or electricity may be affected if the building is unauthorized.
Always invest in RERA-registered projects to avoid fraud.
5. Completion Certificate (CC) and Occupancy Certificate (OC)
These two documents ensure that the building is safe, legal, and ready for living.
Completion Certificate (CC)
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Issued after construction is completed.
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Confirms that the building follows approved plans and safety standards.
Occupancy Certificate (OC)
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Certifies that the building is fit for occupation.
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Issued after checking electricity, water supply, sewage lines, and fire safety.
Why CC and OC are necessary?
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Without these certificates, you may not receive essential services like electricity or water.
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Legally, you cannot live in the flat without an OC.
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If the builder hasn’t taken the OC, you can apply for it yourself, but it may take time.
Do not buy a flat without checking these two certificates.
6. Possession Letter – Confirmation of Handover
A Possession Letter states the exact date and time the builder handed over the flat to you.
Why is it important?
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It serves as proof that you have legally taken control of the property.
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Issued only after the builder receives the Completion Certificate.
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Necessary for home loan and registration purposes.
This document is important during the handover process, especially in new constructions.
Important Tips to Remember While Buying a Flat
Buying property is a big financial and emotional decision. So, keep these points in mind:
✔ 1. Get all documents verified by a property lawyer.
This prevents fraud and confirms that the documents are genuine.
✔ 2. Make all payments through bank transfers or online modes.
Avoid cash transactions to maintain transparency.
✔ 3. Check property tax receipts and ownership certificates.
This ensures there are no pending dues or legal issues.
✔ 4. Prefer RERA-registered projects only.
This reduces the risk of delays and fraud.
✔ 5. Keep photocopies and digital copies of all documents safely.
They may be required for future references or resale.
Conclusion: Proper Documentation = Safe Investment
Buying your first home is a dream come true, but it also requires careful planning and verification.
When you check all the essential documents—Sale Deed, Mother Deed, Approval Plans, Certificates, and Agreement—your investment becomes safe and secure.
A property purchased with complete documents ensures peace of mind and protects you from legal troubles in the future.
If you are planning to buy a flat soon, make sure to understand these documents thoroughly and ask the builder for every necessary proof. A well-informed buyer always makes the best decision!

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