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

By shagun , 25 July 2025

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, fake ownership, and protects buyer/seller rights.

Registration Act – FAQs

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

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