Avirup, an IT professional in his early 30s, came across a property resale deal on an online platform, and it looked perfect for his needs. Located in Rajarhat, the flat was in reasonably good shape, and the seller seemed amiable. However, a little probe brought out the cat in the bag: unpaid property taxes. They would add a hefty amount to the flat cost, and Avirup resumed his property search.
Have you been caught in a similar situation? Paying mutation charges is necessary when buying, inheriting, or even transferring a property in Kolkata or elsewhere in West Bengal. This will keep your property records clean.
We will share the major details of the mutation process in Kolkata and WB with you in this blog.
What is Property Mutation?
Property mutation is the legal process of recording and updating the government’s land records to denote a change in property ownership. This is necessary when you sell, inherit, or gift a property. The name of the new owner of such properties has to be updated in the Record of Rights.
Why Property Mutation is Needed?
The mutation is far from a bureaucratic red tape process – it is a legal requirement. When property mutation is done properly, you can:
- Update your property tax records aptly.
- Reduce the risk of property-related disputes.
- Ensure the ownership transfer is recognized by the govt.
- Enhance the prospect of loan clearance by lending entities.
When to Go for Mutation?
You have to opt for property mutation under the following situations involving property-related legal and financial deals:
- Sale or purchase of a property.
- Transfer of property courtesy of a will or through inheritance.
- Gifting a property to a family member.
- Court orders changing property ownership.
The Property Mutation Process in Kolkata & WB
Let’s have a closer look at the step-by-step property mutation process in Kolkata and WB.
- Gather all required documents
Before applying for a property mutation, you must get the following documents ready.
- A mutation application form (available online or at the municipal offices).
- Sale deed copy for property bought.
- Your ID proof (Aadhar card, voter ID, etc.)
- An Affidavit of ownership.
- The receipts of property tax payments.
If it is a gifted or inherited property, you will need to collect a legal heir certificate, will, or gift deed.
- Submit the application
- Submit your mutation application either through the official online portal or the local municipal office.
- Next, pay the required mutation charges which vary according to the property location and value.
- Opt for the verification process
After submitting the application, the municipal authorities will assess the submitted documents. They will:
- Cross-check the ownership proof.
- Check if all due tax payments are made.
- Sometimes, they conduct physical property inspections.
- Issuance of the mutation certificate
After successful credential verification, your name will get added to the govt’s property records. Then you will receive the mutation certificate, confirming legal ownership of the said property.
The timeline may need 15 days to a couple of months, based on the documents submitted and the workload at the municipal office.
Mutation Process — Choosing Online vs Offline Methode
In West Bengal, you can go for either offline or online property mutation processes.
- Online Process
You have to use the official e-District WB portal and fill up the details accurately and submit the required digital copies of the documents. You can also track the application status thereafter. This process ensures quicker processing and fewer visits to government offices.
- Offline Process
You need to submit all required documents at your local municipal office and pay the charges in person. You may have to pursue the concerned authorities for the updates.
What are the Challenges Faced in Property Mutation?
Even after doing everything necessary, people face hurdles in property mutation in WB. It is better you learn about such issues and their remedies, too.
- Delays in verification- To resolve this, you may either use the online status tracker (for online method) or enquire at the municipal authorities in person.
- Document errors- You should double-check the documents before submitting those for mutation to avoid this hassle.
- Rejection of application- This may require consulting a lawyer with expertise in property–related issues and mutation.
- Property tax dues- Clear any outstanding property taxes for resolving mutation delays.
It would be practical to check all your documents before submitting them for mutation to avoid unnecessary hassles and delays.
Simplify Your Property Mutation Experience
Like Avirup, you may face hurdles in property mutation in Kolkata or elsewhere in WB unless you check the details carefully. The mutation process may seem rather daunting at the beginning. However, keep in mind it is worth the time and effort, both. This process ensures legal ownership of a property-whether you buy it from the realtor firm, the existing owner or inherit it. It eases the hurdles for future property sales as well.
So, when looking for a property in and around Kolkata, make sure you check the tax records carefully. You can use the e-District WB portal or visit the relevant municipal office to get things clear.
