Power of Attorney for Representing Before Municipal Authorities (Property Tax, Khata, Mutation)

Disclaimer
This document is only a sample for general understanding. It must be customised based on your State's stamp duty, municipal procedure, and individual requirements. Always check the latest government rules before use.

Purpose of This Power of Attorney

This Power of Attorney lets a property owner authorise someone else to handle municipal work such as property tax, khata, mutation, record correction, and dealing with municipal officers.

It is useful when the owner is busy, stays abroad, is elderly, or simply wants someone else to run around the municipal maze.

Example: You bought a property in Bengaluru but live in Pune. Instead of flying every time BBMP asks for a tiny correction, you give a POA to your brother to finish all formalities.

When Should It Be Made

• You cannot personally visit the municipal office.
• Mutation/Khata updates are pending after buying a property.
• Property tax records need correction.
• A builder has not updated municipal entries, and you must complete it.
• Someone is required to handle municipal notices or hearings.

STAMP DUTY/LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

• States prescribe stamp duty for PoAs.
• General rule across States:
  • PoA to family member → Often minimal stamp duty.
  • PoA to a non-family member for property-related acts → Higher stamp duty.
  • If a PoA involves transfer of property → Must be registered, but this PoA is only for representation, so it is not a transfer PoA.
• Registration: Optional in most States for this type of PoA. But notarisation is strongly advised for credibility in municipal offices and courts.

CAN A PERSON MAKE THIS WITHOUT AN ADVOCATE?

Yes. Most people draft and execute such PoAs themselves.

• Do:
  • Type clearly.
  • Put full details of both persons.
  • Sign on every page.
  • Attach ID proofs.
  • Get it notarised.
• Do NOT:
  • Leave blank spaces.
  • Give unlimited powers unrelated to municipal work.
  • Allow the attorney to "sell" or "transfer" property unless you intend it.
  • Sign without reading (municipal officers love rejecting typo-filled PoAs).

If these basics are followed, courts and municipal authorities accept such PoAs.

WILL IT BE VALID IN COURT?

Yes, provided:

• It is properly stamped as per your State law.
• It is notarised or registered (not mandatory but increases weight).
• Powers are clearly written and limited to municipal matters.

Courts look for clarity, intention, and authenticity—not fancy English.

FAQs

1. Does this PoA allow the attorney to sell my property?

No. This PoA is only for municipal work, not sale/transfer.

2. Is notarisation compulsory?

Not compulsory, but municipal offices treat notarised PoAs as "real" paperwork.

3. Can I give PoA to a friend?

Yes, but stamp duty may be higher compared to giving it to family.

4. Can the attorney pay property tax on my behalf?

Yes. The PoA authorises payment and collection of receipts.

5. Can municipal authorities reject a PoA?

Yes, if it lacks signatures, photos, ID proof, stamp duty, or proper wording.

6. Can I cancel this PoA anytime?

Yes, through a simple Revocation of PoA.

7. Can this PoA be used for court cases?

Yes, for municipal-related disputes unless you restrict those powers.

8. Is registration at the Sub-Registrar needed?

Not mandatory for representation PoAs. Optional for extra legal strength.

9. Can NRI owners use this PoA?

Yes, they can sign before the Indian Consulate and send it to India.

10. What happens if the attorney misuses the PoA?

You can cancel it and hold them legally accountable for wrongful acts.