Property Registration Rules & Required Documents.

The Registration Act, 1908 governs how property and legal documents are registered in India. Registration creates a public record, prevents fraud, and protects ownership rights. If you're buying, selling, gifting, or leasing property — registration is not optional; it's mandatory.

Key Highlights

• Mandatory registration for sale, gift, mortgage, or lease of immovable property (worth over ₹100).
• Optional registration for wills, adoption deeds, and agreements not involving immediate transfer.
• Documents must be registered within 4 months of execution (signing).
• Registration happens at the Sub-Registrar's Office where the property is situated.
• Ensures transparency, avoids double sale or fake ownership, and gives your transaction legal backing in court.

Documents Required for Property Registration

Important Rules You Must Know

• Registration Timeline: Must be completed within 4 months of signing. Delay allowed for another 4 months with a penalty.
• Place of Registration: Only at the Sub-Registrar Office where the property is located.
• Presence Required: Buyer, seller, and two witnesses must be physically present (or represented via registered PoA).
• Language Rule: The Deed must be in a language understood by the registering officer — else a translated copy is required.
• Stamp Duty: Pay before registration. Rate varies by state (see table below).
• Digital Steps: Many states now allow e-appointment, online stamp duty payment, and digital deed verification.
• Unregistered Document: Has no legal effect in court for ownership claims.
• Rectification: Minor mistakes (like name spellings) can be corrected by a Rectification Deed.

Stamp Duty and Registration Fees (State-Wise Examples)

(Rates vary based on gender, property type, and urban/rural location.)

Registration Act – FAQs

1. What is the Registration Act, 1908?

A law that governs how property and legal documents are officially recorded to establish ownership and prevent fraud.

2. Which documents must be registered?

Sale deed, gift deed, mortgage deed, lease over 12 months, and property transfer agreements.

3. What happens if I don't register?

The document won't be accepted in court and won't transfer legal ownership.

4. Can I register online?

Yes — states like Delhi, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka offer online services for appointment and fee payment.

5. Can someone register on my behalf?

Yes, through a properly executed and registered Power of Attorney.

6. How do I verify if my property is registered?

Check online through your state's registration portal or visit the local Sub-Registrar Office.

7. Can registration be cancelled?

Only through a court order or mutual consent if fraud or mistake is proven.

8. Is Aadhaar mandatory?

Not legally mandatory, but accepted widely as valid ID proof.