Understanding Pakistan Property Documents

Published on January 20, 2026

Property documents in Pakistan can be confusing. Here's a plain-language guide to what each one means and why it matters.

1. Registry (Sale Deed)

The Registry is the official document proving you bought the property. It's registered with the Sub-Registrar's office. Without a registry, you don't legally own the property.

What to check:

Names of buyer and seller
Property description (plot number, size, location)
Date of registration
Stamp paper value

2. Intiqal (Mutation)

The Intiqal is the government record showing the property is now in your name in official revenue records. It's issued by the Patwari.

Always get the Intiqal updated after purchase. Without it, you can't sell the property later easily.

3. Fard Malkiat

The Fard is a computer-generated ownership record. You can get it from the Land Record Center. It shows:

Current owner name
Property size and location
Any liens or mortgages

Get a fresh Fard before buying any property.

4. NOC (No Objection Certificate)

For properties in housing societies (DHA, Bahria, etc.), you need an NOC from the society confirming:

No pending dues
No disputes
Approval for sale

5. Approved Building Plan

For constructed houses:

Approved by LDA (or relevant development authority)
Matches actual construction
Any illegal extensions noted

6. Tax Receipts

Keep proof of:

Property tax paid
Utility bills cleared
Society maintenance paid

Unpaid dues become the new owner's responsibility.

7. Possession Letter

When you buy from a society or developer, this letter confirms you've received physical possession.

How to Verify Documents

Take originals to the issuing office (Sub-Registrar, Patwari, society office)
Ask for a certified copy
Cross-check names, dates, and property details
Hire a property lawyer for legal verification

Common Document Frauds

Fake registry: Printed on genuine paper but forged details
Multiple sales: Same property sold to multiple buyers
Unpaid dues: Hidden society bills transferred to buyer
Illegal construction: Not matching approved plan

Final Advice

Never buy property without a lawyer. Legal fees are cheap compared to losing your life savings.

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