How to Check If a Property is Disputed or Under Litigation in India (2025)

Buying a home is a dream come true — but imagine buying a property that later turns out to be under dispute or legal litigation. Scary, right?

Before investing your hard-earned money, it’s crucial to verify if the property is legally clear and free from any ongoing court cases or ownership issues. In this blog, you’ll learn how to check if a property is disputed or litigated in India, both online and offline, with clear steps and tips to protect yourself.

What is a Disputed or Litigated Property?

disputed or litigated property is one that is under legal scrutiny due to conflicts over:

• Ownership claims
• Inheritance rights
• Illegal possession or encroachment
• Family or partnership disputes
• Government acquisition or notices
• Loan default and NPA tagging by banks

Such properties can become a legal nightmare, so it’s vital to verify the legal status before buying.

How to Check if a Property is Disputed or Under Litigation?

Here are the best methods to ensure the property you’re interested in is dispute-free:

1. Check Encumbrance Certificate (EC)

The Encumbrance Certificate provides the ownership history of the property and records of any legal dues or liabilities.

How to Get EC:

• Visit the sub-registrar’s office or apply online via the respective state’s registration website.
• Provide property details like survey number, document number, and location.
• Download the EC and check for entries like legal claims, court cases, or mortgages.

2. Verify Property Title & Ownership Documents

Ensure that:

• The title deed is in the seller’s name
• The property has a clear chain of ownership
• There are no missing links or overlapping titles

Pro Tip: Get the title deed legally verified by a property lawyer before proceeding.

3. Search Civil Court or High Court Records (Litigation Check)

Some states offer online court case search portals:

• Visit the e-Courts Portal
• Click on “Case Status”
• Choose your state and district
• Enter property owner’s name, address, or survey details
• If any litigation exists, you’ll get details of the case

This is one of the most accurate ways to find ongoing property disputes.

4. Check RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority) Portal

If you are buying from a builder or developer, check the RERA portal of your state:

• Go to your state’s official RERA website
• Search using the project name, developer’s name, or property address
• Check if the property has any complaints, penalties, or litigation notices

Example: https://maharera.mahaonline.gov.in/ for Maharashtra

5. Conduct a Property Title Search via Legal Professionals

Hire a property lawyer or real estate advocate to do a full title verification and litigation check. They will:

• Access court records
• Verify land records
• Identify any pending litigation, family disputes, or third-party claims

Though paid, this gives peace of mind and strong legal assurance.

6. Search Land Records Online

Most states in India offer online land record portals (Bhulekh/Bhumi). These portals help you check:

• Ownership
• Mutation records
• Encroachments
• Government acquisition

Some popular portals:

7. Talk to Neighbors or Local Authorities

Visit the property location and speak to:

• Neighbors
• Local municipal officials
• Village Panchayat members

They may know if the property has disputes, claims, or bad history.

Common Red Flags That a Property is Disputed

Be alert if:

• The price is too low compared to market rates
• Seller is hesitant to provide documents
• Title deed shows joint ownership or pending cases
• Seller pushes for immediate sale without paperwork

Documents You Must Check to Avoid Buying a Disputed Property

Here’s a legal safety checklist:

How to Protect Yourself as a Buyer

• Always hire a property lawyer
• Verify all legal documents thoroughly
• Avoid properties with oral promises or no paperwork
• Ensure there’s no stay order or litigation
• Ask for a no-objection certificate (NOC) from housing society or local bodies

Final Thoughts

Buying a property is a long-term commitment. If you end up with a disputed or litigated property, your investment, peace of mind, and future plans could be at serious risk.

By following these simple steps and using online tools, you can check if a property is legally safe to buy. Always invest wisely and consult legal professionals before signing any property deal.