Buying property? An EC is your first filter for red flags

Representative image

What an EC really tells you

An EC lists registered deals on a property—sales, mortgages, releases, attachments—for the period you choose. It’s the go-to proof for banks and buyers that the title is clean. Just note: private, unregistered arrangements won’t appear here.

When you’ll need it

Home loan? Sale or purchase? Family transfer or a dispute? Pull the EC early. It helps spot issues like an old mortgage that was never released, before money moves.

How to get it online

Most states let you apply on their registration/land-records portal. Create an account, head to the EC section, enter property IDs (survey/plot/flat, SRO, locality) and pick a search window—buyers usually ask for 12-30 years. Pay the small fee and download the PDF in 2-5 working days.

Getting it offline (SRO route)

No online records or very old deeds? Visit the Sub-Registrar Office where the property is registered. Fill the EC application (often Form 22), attach ID and property details, choose the period, pay the fee, and collect the certificate on the due date.

Choose a wider search window

If you’re buying, don’t skimp—ask for 15-30 years. Dormant charges can resurface, and a longer look cuts surprises. Match EC identifiers with your sale deed and municipal records so plot/flat numbers and ward details line up.

If you see an old bank charge

Insist on a registered release deed. A simple “no-dues” letter isn’t enough for clear title. Get copies of the underlying documents from the SRO and keep them with your file.

EC is vital—but not the whole picture

Pair it with the mother deed and full chain, updated tax receipts, sanctioned plans, and—if it’s an apartment—completion/occupancy certificates. If anything looks off, have a real-estate lawyer review before you sign.

Bottom line
The EC is cheap, fast, and powerful for flushing out registered risks. Pull it early, read it carefully, and back it up with proper title diligence—that’s how you buy with confidence.