An Encumbrance Certificate (EC) is important in real estate transactions. It reveals any financial liabilities or restrictions associated with a property. Traditionally, obtaining an EC involved visiting government offices. Thankfully, many states in India now offer a convenient online download option.
This article discusses what an Encumbrance Certificate is and the general steps to download an Encumbrance certificate online.
Below we have discussed:
Also read: How to file an online FIR in India?
What is an Encumbrance Certificate?
If you want to ensure that a property doesn’t have any money or legal problems, all you have to do is check its encumbrance certificate. This certificate is a legal document stating that the property is free from any financial or legal liabilities. Not only does it confirm the property’s status, but also provides details about its previous owners, any past ownership transfers, and any mortgages attached to the property.
Properties with ongoing mortgages can’t obtain an EC. Additionally, if you are thinking about applying for a loan to buy a property or using your existing property as collateral, you’ll need an EC. It’s also checked at the panchayat office to verify if the property owner has paid land tax to the government in the last three years.
How to download EC online?
The specific steps to download an EC online may vary depending on your state. However, the general process remains similar. We’ll provide a general overview and highlight resources for two specific states: Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
General Steps
- Step 1: Visit the official website: Visit the government website for your state’s registration department. This information can often be found on the state government’s official website.
- Step 2: Register or Login: If you haven’t already, you may need to register for an account on the website. The registration process typically involves providing basic information and verifying your email address or phone number.
- Step 3: Navigate to EC Services: Once logged in, locate the section for EC services. This might be labelled Online EC, Encumbrance Certificate, or similar.
- Step 4: Enter Property Details: Provide details about the property for which you require the EC. This may include details like the property registration district, sub-district, and plot number.
- Step 5: View or Download EC: Depending on the system, you can view the EC directly or download a printable copy (often a PDF). Some states might offer digitally signed ECs, which hold greater legal value.
Also read: How to link Aadhar to Voter ID online?
Downloading an EC online in Karnataka
To view and download EC online in Karnataka, follow the steps below:
- Step 1: Visit the Kaveri Online Services portal and log in using your credentials.
- Step 2: Select Online EC Application under the Services tab.
- Step 3: Enter property details and choose the duration of registration needed.
- Step 4: You can then view or download the EC (depending on availability).
Downloading an EC online in Tamil Nadu
To view and download EC online in Tamil Nadu, follow the steps below:
Step 1: Visit the Registration Department website of Tamil Nadu and log in using your credentials.
Step 2: Hover over the E-Services tab at the top.
Step 3: In the dropdown menu, hover over the Encumbrance Certificate option and then click on the View EC option.
- Step 4: Provide the required property details and click on the Search button.
- Step 5: You’ll see all the documents related to the information you entered. Click on the Apply Online button to proceed.
- Step 6: Fill in your name and contact details, save the information, and click on the Next button.
- Step 7: Review the payment details, then choose your preferred payment option and click on the Pay button.
- Step 8: Enter the required information in the e-payment section, including your name, address, and sub-registrar office details.
- Step 9: Select the bank from which you want to make the electronic payment and complete the transaction.
- Step 10: Once your payment is successful, you’ll receive a bank reference number, CIN number, and transaction ID. Keep these details safe.
The encumbrance certificate will be sent to your login account once the sub-registrar approves your application based on the provided data. Each page will have a QR code, and the sub-registrar’s digital signature will be affixed at the end. Additionally, you’ll receive an SMS notification confirming the process.
Also read: How to get your RC book online?
