Buying Property? Know the Must-Register Documents Under the Registration Act.

The Registration Act, 1908 is a law that governs the registration of documents, especially those related to property and land. Its main goal is to create a public record of important documents to avoid disputes and fraud.

 Key Highlights:

• Mandatory registration for:
  • Sale, gift, mortgage, or lease of immovable property (property over ₹100 in value)
  • Transfer of property rights
• Optional registration for some other documents like wills or agreements.
• Registered documents act as legal proof in court.
• Documents must be registered within 4 months of signing.
• Registration is done at the Sub-Registrar’s Office where the property is located.
• Helps prevent fraud and fake ownership and protects buyer/seller rights.

Registration Act – FAQs

1. What is the Registration Act, 1908?
   It's a law that deals with the registration of important documents, especially for property transactions.
2. Why is registration important?
   It creates legal proof of ownership and prevents fraud or disputes.
3. Which documents must be registered?
   • Sale deed
   • Gift deed
   • Lease (over 12 months)
   • Mortgage
   • Agreement to sell (in some states)
4. Is it compulsory to register property documents?
   Yes, if the property value is above ₹100, registration is mandatory.
5. Where do I register a property document?
   At the Sub-Registrar Office where the property is located.
6. Within how many days should a document be registered?
   Within 4 months of signing the document.
7. Can the registration time be extended?
   Yes, with a penalty, it can be extended by another 4 months.
8. What happens if a document is not registered?
   It will not be accepted in court as proof and may cause legal problems.
9. Can I register a will?
   Yes, Will registration is optional but highly recommended.
10. Is online property registration available?
    In some states, parts of the process, like booking appointments or paying stamp duty, are online.
11. Can someone else register on my behalf?
    Yes, with a proper Power of Attorney (PoA).
12. Is Aadhaar or ID proof needed during registration?
    Yes, ID proof and photographs of both parties are required.
13. What is stamp duty?
    A tax paid to the government on property transactions. It must be paid before registration.
14. Is stamp duty the same in all states?
    No, stamp duty rates vary from state to state.
15. How long does registration take?
    Generally, it takes 1–2 hours on the appointment day, but the registered document may be ready in a few days to a week.
16. Can a document be cancelled after registration?
    Only through a legal procedure or mutual agreement.
17. Is registration required for a rental agreement?
    Yes, if the lease is for more than 11 months.
18. Who prepares the sale deed for registration?
    Usually a lawyer or deed writer, but it must be signed and submitted by both parties.
19. Do both the buyer and seller need to be present?
    Yes, both must appear at the Sub-Registrar Office or send someone with PoA.
20. Can I verify if a property is registered?
    Yes, by checking at the Sub-Registrar Office or online property record portals in some states.