In Tamil Nadu, purchasing a property involves ensuring the documents are authentic, clear of encumbrances, and legally valid. One crucial step is to obtain a certified copy of the property deed and compare it with the original document. This process helps you detect any potential forgery or tampering before you finalize the transaction. Below is a complete guide on how to apply for a certified copy and perform a basic authenticity check.
Contents
1. Understanding the Importance of a Certified Copy
- Legal Credibility
- A certified copy is an officially attested version of the original deed, recognized by government authorities.
- Verification Tool
- When you’re about to purchase a property, obtaining the certified copy and matching it with the original ensures the document you’re relying on isn’t forged or altered.
- Safety & Convenience
- If the original is damaged or lost, a certified copy can temporarily stand in for legal requirements (e.g., bank loans, court processes).
2. Why Compare Certified Copy with the Original Document
- Spot Forgery or Alterations
Mismatched page numbers, overwritten text, or missing signatures in the original deed can be detected when cross-checked against a newly issued certified copy. - Ensure Clear Boundaries
Verify property details like survey numbers, measurements, and owner names are consistent, preventing future boundary or ownership disputes.
3. Steps to Obtain a Certified Copy in Tamil Nadu
- Identify the Sub-Registrar’s Office (SRO)
- Find out where the original document was registered. You can use tools like Find Your SRO for quick lookup.
- Application & Fee Payment
- Get the application form either online via tnreginet.gov.in or in person from the SRO.
- Provide the document number, registration year, and any required personal details.
- Pay the prescribed fee (cost varies depending on the document’s length and registration date).
- Verification Process
- SRO staff verifies your request; if everything matches their records, they proceed to issue a copy.
- Collect or Download the Certified Copy
- Depending on the SRO’s capabilities, you can pick it up in person or download it online if an e-copy is available.
4. Checking for Potential Forgery or Discrepancies
- Compare Each Page Thoroughly
- Look for mismatched names, property extents, or missing witness signatures.
- Paper Quality & Seal
- If you have the physical original, check that the official seal, stamp papers, and watermark align with the certified copy’s date and content.
- Cross-Verify Owner Names
- A slight spelling change (like “Rajaram” vs. “Rajaram S.”) could hint at an error or forging attempt.
- Seek Legal Advice
- If you suspect any mismatch, consult a lawyer or use Legal Opinion to confirm authenticity.
5. Additional Services & Tools
- Certified Copy Service
If you want to bypass repeated SRO visits, Certified Copy services help you manage the process end-to-end and even compare documents if needed. - Owner Contact Initiative
Unsure about the real owner? Owner Contact Initiative can facilitate a secure connection to confirm their identity. - Litigation Solutions
If you discover potential fraud, Litigation Solutions can guide you through the legal process to protect your interests.
6. Tips for a Secure Property Transaction
- Request Certified Copy Early
- Don’t wait until the last moment; ensure you have time to spot discrepancies.
- Double-Check Document Numbers
- Wrong document or registration numbers lead to incorrect copies. Accurately note them from the original deed.
- Monitor New Registration or Updates
- Keep track of any supplementary deeds or corrections, especially if the property changed hands multiple times.
- Insist on Original Document Access
- Always match the certified copy with the actual original deed before finalizing payment or signing new agreements.