Property Registration in West Bengal: Documents & Procedure Explained
Buying property in West Bengal is a milestone, but many buyers underestimate the importance of proper registration. In West Bengal, ownership is legally recognised only after the property is registered with the registering authority under the Registration Act, 1908. Below is a practical, human-written guide to property registration in Kolkata, covering documents, stamp duty, and common mistakes people often make.
Documents required for property registration in West Bengal
- Sale deed or conveyance deed (drafted and vetted)
- Previous title deeds forming a clear chain of ownership
- Identity and address proof of buyer and seller (Aadhaar, PAN, voter ID, etc.)
- PAN card of both parties (mandatory for property transactions)
- Passport-size photographs
- Encumbrance Certificate
- Municipal tax receipts and utility bills
- Approved building plan and completion certificate (for flats)
- No Objection Certificate
Stamp duty and registration charges in West Bengal
Stamp duty and registration fees depend on the property’s location and market value, not merely the sale price.
In Kolkata Municipal Corporation areas:
• Stamp duty: around 6% of the property value
• Registration fee: 1% of the property value
In some cases, women buyers and certain municipal zones may receive stamp duty concessions announced by the state government from time to time. Stamp duty is usually paid online through the GRIPS portal or at designated banks before registration.
Property registration procedure
Once stamp duty is paid, an appointment is booked with the local Registrar of Assurances. On the scheduled date, both buyer and seller must appear personally, sign the sale deed, and complete biometric verification. After scrutiny, the document is registered and a certified copy is issued.
Conclusion
Property registration in is not just a formality but the legal foundation of ownership. Taking time to verify documents, pay correct stamp duty, and avoid shortcuts can prevent years of legal trouble. A cautious approach at the registration stage ensures long-term peace of mind and protects your investment.
FAQs
1. Is property registration mandatory in Kolkata?
Yes. Without registration, a sale deed has no legal validity and ownership does not legally transfer to the buyer.
2. How long does property registration take?
The registration process itself is usually completed on the same day, but receiving the certified registered deed may take a few days to a couple of weeks.
3. Can stamp duty be paid online in West Bengal?
Yes. Stamp duty and registration fees can be paid online through the GRIPS portal or at authorised banks before the registration appointment.
4. What happens if stamp duty is underpaid?
If stamp duty is underpaid, the registration authority can impose penalties and interest, and the document may be impounded until the deficit is paid.
