How to verify land before you buy

Always check the documents yourself before paying any advance. These official Tamil Nadu government websites let you check the main records.

  1. 1

    Patta, Chitta and FMB sketch

    Check who the land is registered to in revenue records, and the survey sketch, using the district, taluk, village and survey number.

    eservices.tn.gov.in
  2. 2

    Encumbrance Certificate (EC)

    Check past sales, mortgages and other transactions on the property on the Registration Department portal. Also check the guideline value there.

    tnreginet.gov.in
  3. 3

    DTCP layout approval

    For plots outside Chennai, check the layout approval (LP) number with the Town and Country Planning department.

    onlineppa.tn.gov.in
  4. 4

    CMDA approval (Chennai area)

    For plots in the Chennai Metropolitan Area, check the approval with CMDA.

    www.cmdachennai.gov.in
  5. 5

    RERA registration

    For larger layouts sold by promoters, check the project registration with TNRERA.

    rera.tn.gov.in

Online records don't replace a legal check. Before buying, have a property lawyer verify the title documents, and visit the land in person.