Plot Purchase Checklist in Tamil Nadu: From Patta/Chitta to Registration15 OCT 2025

Buying a plot in Tamil Nadu is an exciting step — whether you’re planning to build your dream home or make a long-term investment. However, before finalizing your purchase, it’s essential to ensure that every legal and document-related step is in order.

With the growing demand for land for sale in Chennai and surrounding suburbs, many first-time buyers often overlook crucial paperwork and verification processes. This blog from Right Angle Properties serves as your complete plot purchase checklist in Tamil Nadu, covering every stage from Patta and Chitta verification to registration.

1. Verify Land Ownership Documents

Before proceeding with any transaction, confirm that the seller is the rightful owner of the property.

• Sale Deed: The original sale deed is the legal proof of ownership. Always request to view and verify the original document.
• Parent Documents: Trace the property’s ownership history for at least the past 20 years.
• Encumbrance Certificate (EC): This certificate shows whether the property is free from legal dues or mortgages.

2. Check Land Classification & Approvals

Not all land in Tamil Nadu can be used for residential purposes. Make sure that:

• The land is classified as residential or converted to non-agricultural use.
• It has DTCP or CMDA approval.
• The layout developer has obtained RERA registration (for larger projects).

Buying only approved plots in Tamil Nadu ensures long-term safety and better resale value.

3. Verify Patta and Chitta

Patta and Chitta are two of the most critical land ownership records maintained by the Tamil Nadu government:

• Patta: Confirms ownership and includes details like the survey number, size, and classification of the land.
• Chitta: Maintains details about the type of land (wet or dry) and the landholder.

You can verify these online at the Tamil Nadu e-Services website (eservices.tn.gov.in) using the survey number and district information.

4. Confirm Land Measurements and Boundaries

Discrepancies in measurement are common issues in real estate in Chennai and other cities. Before finalizing:

• Cross-verify the dimensions on the sale deed with the field measurement book (FMB) sketch.
• Visit the site with a licensed surveyor to ensure boundaries match.
• Check for any encroachments or disputes with neighboring lands.

5. Check Property Tax Receipts

Ask the seller to provide recent property tax payment receipts to ensure all dues are cleared. Unpaid taxes can cause delays in registration or future ownership disputes.

6. Verify No-Objection Certificates (NOCs)

Depending on the location, you may need:

• Local body NOC from the municipality or panchayat.
• Environmental clearance if the land is near restricted or water body areas.
• Electricity board NOC in case there are overhead or underground power lines nearby.

These checks ensure your plots in Tamil Nadu are legally clean and ready for construction.

7. Execute a Clear Sale Agreement

Once everything is verified, draft a Sale Agreement that mentions:

• Buyer and seller details.
• Agreed sale price and payment schedule.
• Timeline for registration.
• Clauses for cancellation or penalties (if applicable).

This agreement is a binding document and protects both parties.

8. Complete the Registration Process

The final step is property registration at the Sub-Registrar’s Office. Steps include:

• Calculating stamp duty and registration charges.
• Presenting the signed sale deed with required ID proofs.
• Getting thumb impressions and photographs of both parties.
• Receiving the registered sale deed, which becomes the official proof of ownership.

Once registered, update the Patta in your name through the local VAO office or online portal.

9. Update Records After Registration

After registration:

• Apply for a name transfer in Patta and Chitta.
• Update your property tax records.
• Keep digital and physical copies of all your documents safely stored.

Need help with documentation? Our experts at Right Angle Properties assist buyers with all approvals and registration support for land for sale in Chennai.

Conclusion

Buying a plot in Tamil Nadu can be one of the most rewarding investments when done with proper due diligence. From verifying ownership to registering your property, every step ensures your investment is safe and legally protected.

With Right Angle Properties, you get expert guidance at every stage of your purchase — making your journey towards owning land for sale in Chennai smooth, transparent, and worry-free.