Buying a resale flat in Delhi NCR is one of the safer real-estate plays in 2026 — possession is immediate, the construction quality is visible, and the locality is already developed. But it also means you are inheriting whatever paperwork issues the previous owner had. This checklist walks through what to verify before you pay a single rupee in token.
1. Sale deed and chain of title
Ask for the original sale deed and the chain of previous owners. The chain should be unbroken for at least the last 13 years. Any gap, gift deed, or partition deed in between needs to be properly stamped and registered.
2. Mutation (Dakhil-Kharij)
Mutation is the record at the municipal office that says the seller is the legal occupant. No mutation = property tax bills will keep going to the previous owner. Always insist on a fresh mutation in your name post-purchase.
3. Encumbrance certificate (EC)
An EC for the last 13 years confirms the property is not mortgaged or under litigation. You can get it from the sub-registrar office where the property is registered.
4. Society NOC
If it is a builder-floor or apartment, ask the RWA or society for an NOC saying maintenance dues are clear and the seller has no outstanding charges.
5. Property tax receipts
Last 3 years of property tax receipts paid to MCD/NDMC. Outstanding tax becomes the buyer's liability after sale.
6. Approved building plan
For independent floors, the sanctioned building plan from MCD must match the actual built-up area. Unauthorised construction can lead to demolition notices later.
Final word
If any of the above is missing or vague, walk away. A good deal with bad paperwork becomes a bad deal in court. At Ritesh Traders, we run this checklist on every property before we list it — that's the whole point of working with a verified dealer.
