What is Property Mutation?

Often referred to as ‘Dakhil Kharij’ in common language, property mutation is a process of getting land revenue records updated. It needs to be done when there is some kind of change in the property’s ownership or in some other details. Usually, people miss out on getting the property mutation done after purchasing a property. But it should be processed as soon as the transaction is done and the property is registered in the buyer’s name.

Other than real estate purchases, mutation of property is also required when the ownership gets changed because of inheritance or partition. Or if someone is transferring their property rights to another person for some other reason, property mutation needs to be done.

Importance of Mutation of Property

Property mutation is a legal requirement that helps in ensuring that the government records have accurate information about a particular property. This information can be related to the landowner or something else, such as the property size, details of previous owners, etc.

Here is why it is an important part of any real estate transaction:

• Property mutation validates the ownership transfer of a property from one person to another.
• Mutation records are used by the tax authorities to calculate property taxes and maintain their records.
• If you want to obtain a loan against the property, a mutation certificate is among the necessary documents. It helps financial institutions to check details about the property.
• In cases of inheritance, property mutation is required to ensure the seamless transfer of ownership to legal heirs.
• Property mutation helps in reducing the chances of fraudulent activities related to that property, such as double-dealing or any kind of legal dispute.
• Property mutation also ensures that any changes made in the property, such as renovations or expansions, are documented in government records.
• Property mutation certificate is a document that allows the new buyer to check the ownership history and legal status of a real estate property.

What is the procedure for mutation of property?

Although the process of getting mutation of a property done remains the same at almost all locations, there can be slight variation between the processes in different states. For example, if you’re looking for ‘land for sale in Chennai’ or ‘plots for sale in Tambaram’ the process will be the same as both places are a part of Tamil Nadu.

Here is a detailed step-wise guide that you can follow to obtain a property mutation certificate:

Step 1 - Collect All Necessary Documents

The very first thing you need to do, even before initiating the process of property mutation, is to gather all the essential documents. Always make sure that the documents you have are up-to-date and have accurate information about the property.

Step 2 - Submit the Mutation Application Form

The next step in the process is to submit an application for mutation of property. For this, you can either go for an online land mutation application or obtain a form from the office of the municipal corporation. In this application form, you need to enter all the relevant details about the property and its current ownership accurately to avoid any delays or discrepancies.

Step 3 - Document Submission and Payment of Fees

Now you need to upload all the required documents along with the application form and pay the applicable mutation fees. In addition to this, one affidavit also needs to be made and submitted. Most Indian states, including Tamil Nadu, have an online platform for the same where you can upload your documents. It is recommended to adhere to the specified format of affidavit for mutation of property and other guidelines related to document submission.

Step 4 - Get an Acknowledgement Receipt

Upon successful submission, you’ll receive an acknowledgement receipt that works as a confirmation that your mutation application has been submitted.

Step 5 - Verification and Processing

Once done, the authorities perform detailed background verification before processing the mutation request. It involves cross-checking the details provided by you and conducting any necessary inspections as well.

Step 6 - Mutation Entry

When your mutation request gets approved, the details are entered into the official records of the municipal corporation. This is essentially the last step in the process of transferring property ownership in government records.

Step 7 - Obtain the Mutation Certificate

You can easily obtain the mutation certificate from the municipal corporation. This certificate serves as the legal proof of your updated ownership status.

Required Documents for Property Mutation

Here is a list of all the documents required for obtaining a property mutation certificate:

• Identity Proof (Aadhar Card/PAN Card/Voter ID)
• Address Proof (utility bills/driving license/passport/Aadhar card)
• Property Documents (property title deed, property tax receipts, sale deed)
• Affidavit for Property Mutation
• Ownership Documents (indemnity bond, registration deed)
• Death Certificate of the Owner (in case of mutation of property after the previous owner’s death)
• Succession Certificate
• Encumbrance Certificate

Conclusion

In conclusion, property mutation is a vital process that validates the ownership of a property. Whether you’re buying a property or getting it transferred from a family member as a gift or inheritance, obtaining a mutation certificate is a must.