12 Documents to Check Before Buying a Flat in Hyderabad

Buying an apartment in Hyderabad is a seven-figure decision, and most disputes come down to one missing document. Work through this checklist in order.

1. RERA registration number. Every project above 500 sq m or eight units must be registered with RERA Telangana. Search the number on the RERA portal and confirm the promoter name, project area and completion date match the brochure.

2. Sale deed of the land. This establishes how the builder acquired the land. Check the chain of title for at least 30 years.

3. Encumbrance certificate. Obtain an EC for 13 to 30 years from the sub-registrar office to confirm the land is free of mortgages.

4. Approved building plan. Compare the sanctioned plan with what is being constructed. Extra floors without approval are a regularisation risk.

5. Occupancy certificate. For ready homes this is non-negotiable. Without an OC, water and electricity connections and resale are all at risk.

6. Agreement of sale. Read the penalty clause for delayed possession and the exit clause if you cancel.

7. Common area statement. Confirm the loading percentage between carpet area and super built-up area. Anything above 35 percent deserves a question.

8. Parking allotment. Parking cannot be sold separately as per law; it must be allotted in writing.

9. Property tax receipts and land conversion order for non-agricultural use.

10. NOCs from fire, airport authority where applicable, and the pollution control board.

11. Bank approval list. If leading banks have approved the project, their legal teams have already vetted the title.

12. Possession letter and handover checklist at the time of registration.

Keep certified copies of every document. A lawyer's title opinion costs a few thousand rupees and is the cheapest insurance you will buy in the process.