Lost your house registry? Here's what you need to do to protect you property

You've probably heard about cases of land and house fraud, and it's essential to take precautions to avoid falling victim to such incidents. Your house documents serve as proof of property ownership. But what happens if the original registry of your house is lost, and someone else has a copy of it? Can they register the house in their name?

The reassuring fact is that the registrar's office always keeps a copy of your property registry. If the original is lost, it can be retrieved easily, eliminating concerns about losing your copy. Nevertheless, if someone else gains access to it, understanding the steps to take when your registry is lost can shield you from potential fraud.

1. File a police report: If you lose your original property registry, report it at the nearest police station. Keep a copy of the FIR and submit another copy to the registrar office. Inform the sub-registrar in writing about the loss.

2. Notarize an undertaking: Consider getting a notarized property undertaking on stamp paper. Include all property details, info about the lost papers, FIR information, and the newspaper notice of document loss. Register and notarize the undertaking, then submit it to the nearest registrar office.

3. Obtain duplicate papers: After submitting the property undertaking, apply for duplicate papers at the registrar office. Provide a copy of the FIR, newspaper notice, and the notarized undertaking. Some processing fees may apply, but you'll receive a duplicate sale deed in your name.

Taking these steps can help safeguard your property and prevent potential fraud in case your house documents are lost.

Read more: Earn 4% interest on your lowest deposit with this Post Office savings scheme, know how