Registration of Flat Compulsory before Possession?

Registration of flat before possession is a mandatory process that plays a crucial role in safeguarding the interests of both the buyer and the seller. This legal procedure formalises the transfer of ownership, ensuring that the buyer’s rights are officially recognised and protected. By completing the registration, all parties involved can avoid potential disputes and ensure a smooth transition of property ownership, providing security and clarity for the future.

Importance of Registration of Flat

1. Legal ownership of flat – Registration of flat legally transfers the ownership in your name. Without it, the builder remains the legal owner, which can lead to disputes.
2. Mortgage and Loan Eligibility – Banks require registered ownership to approve a home loan. They insist on the registration of under construction flats before granting home loans.
3. Protection Against Fraud – Prevents the builder from selling the same flat to multiple buyers.
4. Resale and Transfer Benefits – You cannot legally sell or transfer an unregistered flat. A registered flat increases its market value and liquidity.
5. Avoiding Additional Charges & Penalties – Many states impose penalties for delayed registration. Stamp duty and registration charges may increase over time.

Procedure for Flat Registration

Online Document Preparation Procedure

1. The user has to prepare the document to be registered using Citizen Slot Booking system and upload the required documents.
2. The user then has to make the payment through an online portal and book a slot for registering the document.
3. The user then has to go to the Sub-Registrar office according to the slot booked and present the document.

Procedure at Sub-Registrar Office

1. The user arrives at the Sub-Registrar Office with the document to be registered.
2. Officer at SR office prepares a check slip based on the details provided though PDE, making necessary changes if required.
3. Upon generation of check slip, E-KYC is conducted, where finger prints of the registering parties are collected and are verified against Aadhar database.
4. Payment of stamp duty, registration fees and other requisite fees is verified.
5. Endorsements are then printed on the document being registered.
6. Document is registered by Sub-Registrar by assigning the Regular Document number and thumb impression of the parties is also collected.
7. The registered document is scanned and uploaded on the portal, which the user can download from the portal using the credentials sent via sms.
8. In case of verification being unsuccessful, the applicant will be directed to make necessary changes and re-submit the application.

Documents Required for Registration of Flat

1. The original document bearing signature of all parties.
2. eSTAMPS evidencing payment of full stamp duty, transfer duty (if any), registration fee and user charges.
3. Section 32A photo form of executants/claimants/witnesses, if required.
4. Two credible persons(witnesses), who will identify the parties and identity cards with photos of such persons.
5. Address proof of the executants and witnesses. The following are the valid address proofs –
   • Aadhar card
   • Passport issued by Government of India
   • Driving licence issued by Transport Department
   • PAN Card issued by IT Department
   • Ration card issued by Civil Supplies Department
   • Voter ID issued by Election Commission of India
   • Bank Passbook with Photo
6. Photograph capturing Frontal view of the property (8/6 inches).
7. GPA /SPA, if any in original and its Photo copy.
8. Link documents copies.
9. Any other document issued by Local body related to the property.

Included Charges

1. Stamp duty
2. Registration fee
3. Transfer duty

Timelines for Registration of Flat

S.No	Main Services	Standard	Time Frame	Name and contact details of Officer Responsible	Penalty (in Rupees)
1	Registration of Document	After registration the document will be scanned, certified and returned to the parties	24 hours	Sub-Registrar	50/- per day
2	Issue of Encumbrance Certificate and Certified Copies(through computer)	After conducting search of the computer record, a certificate in a fixed format is issued to parties	1 hour	Jr. / Sr. Assistant	10/- per hour
3	Issue of Encumbrance Certificate and Certified Copies (manual)	After conducting search of the manual record, a certificate in a fixed format is issued to parties	24hours	Jr. / Sr. Assistant	50/- per day
4	Registration of Marriages	When bride and groom sign the register then the registration is completed and certificate is issued	1 hour	Sub-Registrar	10/- per hour
5	Reference of pending document to District Registrar	It shall be done by the Sub-Registrar in one day	1 day	Sub-Registrar	100/- per day
6	Reference of pending document under scheme of 47- A	The Sub-Registrar has to visit the property under reference and on satisfying that proper value is not adopted makes a reference to the DR	7 days	Sub-Registrar	100/- per day
7	Issue of Market Value	On application by the party, a computer generated value slip is issued	1 hour	Jr. / Sr. Assistant concerned	10/- per hour

Conclusion

Registering a flat before possession is the final and most important step in making your new home truly yours. It provides legal recognition to your ownership and marks the completion of your property purchase. While the excitement of moving in may be overwhelming, skipping or delaying registration can lead to certain complications. A registered property not only secures your rights but also grants you peace of mind, knowing that your investment is legally protected.

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