How to Verify Property Ownership in Pakistan (2025): Fraud Prevention & Safe Transaction Guide

"In Pakistan's property market, trust is built on verified documents—not handshakes."

Step 1: Digital Verification via Provincial Portals

Punjab (PLRA Portal)

• Visit: Punjab Zameen → Property Registration.
• Search By: Khewat number, CNIC, or owner name.
• Get Fard: Download NADRA-verified Record of Rights (RoR) showing ownership history, liens, and disputes.
• E-Registration: Digitally transfer deeds via integrated system.

Sindh (LARIMS)

• Visit: Sindh Zameen → Search Registries.
• Enter: Deh/Taluka details + owner CNIC.
• Verify: View scanned original deed + mutation history.

KPK/Balochistan

• Limited Digitization: Submit written application at Tehsil office for Fard-e-Malkiat.
• SMS Service: Send property details to 8585 for basic info.

Step 2: Physical Document Inspection

Critical Documents to Demand:

| Document | Purpose | Red Flags | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Title Deed | Legal ownership proof | Mismatched seller name | | Mother Deed | Full ownership history (since 1st owner) | Gaps in lineage | | Encumbrance Cert | Confirms no mortgages/liens | "Pending court cases" note | | NOC (Housing) | Society approval by LDA/CDA/SBCA | Fake logos; unverified contacts | | Tax Receipts | Proof of paid property taxes | Recent unpaid dues |

Verify Authenticity: Cross-check stamps/seals at Tehsil Revenue Office.

10 Property Fraud Red Flags (2025 Update)

1. "Urgent Sale" Pressure: "Buy today or offer gone!" tactics.
2. Unapproved Societies: No LDA/CDA/SBCA master plan approval.
3. Cash-Only Demands: Refusal of banking channels.
4. Below-Market Pricing: "Bargains" hiding legal defects.
5. Vague Documentation: Seller avoids sharing title deeds/NOCs.
6. Agent Without License: No registered brokerage firm.
7. Boundary Discrepancies: Actual plot size < paperwork claims.
8. Power of Attorney Loopholes: Undated/generic PoA terms.
9. Token Money Traps: Advance demanded before document checks.
10. Fake "Completion Certs": For under-construction properties.

Step 3: On-Ground Verification

• Physical Visit:
  • Match plot location with khasra map at Tehsil office.
  • Check for encroachments or unauthorized constructions.
• Neighbor Validation: Ask locals about:
  • Actual owner identity.
  • Ongoing disputes.
• Police Verification: File request at local station for dispute history (₨200 fee).

Legal Safeguards & Constitution

• Article 23/24: Constitution guarantees property rights & compensation for public acquisitions.
• Transfer of Property Act (1882): Mandates registered sale deeds for validity.
• 2025 Overseas Protections: Submit sale deeds via Pakistani embassies; avoid PoA fraud.

Pro Tips for Safe Transactions

• Hire a Property Lawyer: Costs ₨15,000–₨30,000; verifies docs & drafts bomb-proof contracts.
• Use Escrow Accounts: Pay via banks like HBL/UBL—funds released only after mutation.
• NADRA Verification: SMS PVS <13-digit-CNIC> to 7000 for asset-linked report.
• Roshan Digital Accounts: For overseas buyers—direct USD/PKR transfers tracked by SBP.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

| Problem | Solution | | :--- | :--- | | "Khewat not found online" | Visit Arzi Center (PLRA) with CNIC + witness | | "Seller avoids mutation" | Freeze payment; file complaint at DC Office | | "Fake NOC" | Cross-check with LDA/CDA helpline (e.g., LDA: 042-111-000-432) | | "Encroachment found" | Demand removal before payment; involve Tehsil court |

One-Screen Cheat Sheet

1. Digital Check:
   • Punjab: punjab-zameen.gov.pk → Enter Khewat#
   • Sindh: sindhzameen.gos.pk → Enter CNIC
2. Physical Verify:
   • Demand: Title + Mother deeds + NOC
   • Visit plot + Tehsil office
3. Fraud Scan:
   • Reject "urgent deals"/cash-only
   • Confirm society LDA/CDA approval
4. Pay Safely:
   • Escrow account → Release after mutation
5. Legal Backup:
   • Lawyer vetting + NADRA SMS PVS <CNIC> to 7000

"In 2025, your property dream survives due diligence."

Bookmark this guide—share to stop a fraud today!