Understanding title deeds (hati) before you buy

What a title deed is

A title deed (certificate of title) is the official record that a person holds a right of occupancy over a registered plot. It is issued and registered by the land authorities and describes who holds the right, which plot it covers, for how many years, and on what conditions.

Papers that are not a title

Many documents are useful but are not the same as a title. Make sure you know which you are looking at:

• A sale agreement or receipt — proves a payment or a deal, not registered ownership.
• An offer letter — an offer of a right that must still be completed and registered.
• A survey plan — shows the shape and size of the plot, not who holds it.
• A customary certificate for village land — a different kind of right with its own rules.

What to check on a title

• The holder’s name matches the seller (or the company selling).
• The plot number and location match the plot you visited, and the survey plan.
• The term of the right (for example, how many years remain) and the permitted use.
• Any conditions, mortgages, charges or restrictions noted on it.

Do an official search

Do not rely on a photocopy. Ask a lawyer to carry out an official search at the land registry to confirm the registered holder and to see whether the plot is mortgaged, disputed or has unpaid land rent.

“Titled” and “title in process”

Some plots are already titled, and others are still being processed. Ask the seller to be clear about which one it is, what stage the process has reached, who is responsible for completing it, and when your own title will be issued. Get the answers in your agreement.

Warning signs

• The seller will only show photocopies, or cannot show the original.
• The name on the papers is not the name of the seller.
• You are pressed to pay quickly or in cash, or the price is far below similar plots.
• The seller does not want you to do an official search or involve a lawyer.

After you pay

Make sure the title is transferred into your name, and keep the original in a safe place with copies elsewhere. At Imarah you receive your plot documents once the plot has been paid for in full; ask us about the title status of any plot you are considering.