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.