Who verifies: your lawyer, not the seller
A dealer or consultant can share the papers they hold, but verification should be done by someone independent and accountable to you: a property lawyer you choose and, for records and approvals, the relevant authority itself.
1. The land record (fard)
In Punjab, the Punjab Land Records Authority (PLRA) says a fard is an official document with details of a piece of land, including its area, location and ownership, and that it can change after transfers or mutations, so the latest version should be obtained before a transaction. PLRA's website describes obtaining a fard at an Arazi Records Center. Ask your lawyer or representative to get a current fard instead of accepting an old copy, and compare the name, area and location with the file.
2. Housing-society files
Plots in housing societies are usually held through allotment letters, files and society records rather than a simple fard of the individual plot. Ask for the allotment letter, the society's transfer record and a no-dues confirmation from the society, and have your lawyer check them against the society's records.
3. The seller's identity and authority
- Match the seller's original CNIC or NICOP to the name on the records.
- If a power of attorney is used, examine it, check its scope and expiry, and have it confirmed with the issuing office or the owner.
- Be wary of a seller who will not meet, will not show originals, or will not let a lawyer review the file.
4. Encumbrances and legal status
Ask your lawyer to confirm that the plot is not mortgaged, disputed, subject to a court case or sold to someone else, and that every transfer in the chain is documented.
5. The scheme's approval
Confirm the housing scheme's approval with the relevant authority and ask for the approval documents. A brochure, a banner or a seller's statement is not proof.
6. Mutation after purchase
PLRA describes how, after a registered sale, the mutation is entered at the Sub Registrar's office and then attested. Your lawyer should confirm the mutation is completed and that you receive the updated record.
This article is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Prices, rules and fees change, so confirm current figures with the developer and have a lawyer review your documents before you pay.