Legal Checklist for Buying a Home in Mumbai
Purchasing a home in Mumbai isn’t just a financial commitment—it’s a legal one too. From verifying ownership to checking approvals, every document matters. Here’s your go-to legal checklist to ensure your home buying process is smooth and risk-free.
9/27/20251 min read
1. Title Deed
What it is: A Document proving ownership of the land/property.
Ensure the seller has a clear and marketable title. Verify there's no dispute or litigation on the land.
2. RERA Registration
Why it matters: RERA ensures transparency and protects buyers.
Check the project’s registration at maharera.mahaonline.gov.in Validate details like possession date, layout, and developer credentials.
3. Sale Agreement
What to check:
Agreed carpet area
Price breakdown (base cost, taxes, etc.)
Possession date + penalty clause
Get this registered with the sub-registrar to make it legally enforceable.
4. Commencement & Completion Certificates
Issued by: Local civic authorities
Commencement Certificate (CC) – Legal start of construction, Occupation Certificate (OC) – Approval to occupy after completion
Without these, you may face issues with legality and possession.
5. Intimation of Disapproval (IOD) & Building Plan Approvals
These documents confirm that the construction complies with regulations.
Check for valid IOD and sanctioned plans. Ensure no unauthorized extensions or deviations
6. Home Loan Bank Approvals
Banks do their own due diligence before approving loans for a project.
Choose projects approved by leading banks like HDFC, SBI, ICICI. Ask for an APF (Approved Project Finance) number
7. Society NOC (For Resale Properties)
Buying a flat in an existing society?
Get a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the society. Also check for:
Property tax clearance
Maintenance dues
Pending bills
8. Encumbrance Certificate
This certificate shows if the property has any legal dues or loans on it.
Obtain it from the Sub-Registrar’s office It should cover at least 15 years of ownership history
BONUS: For Chembur & Central Mumbai Buyers
If you’re buying in Chembur, Sion, or Wadala, many projects are under redevelopment. Ensure:
Builder has SRA/MHADA clearance
Old tenants’ rights are addressed
Municipal permissions are updated
Conclusion
Don’t cut corners on legal checks. A small oversight can cost you big later.
At Chembur Property, we assist buyers with complete legal due diligence, be it in new launches in Chembur or resale flats in Sion.
Want help verifying a property? We’ve got your back legally and strategically.

