What an EC shows
An Encumbrance Certificate lists registered transactions on a property over a period you choose — sales, mortgages, gift deeds and similar documents registered with the Registration & Stamps Department.
It helps you see the chain of ownership and whether a loan was registered against the property.
Registration & Stamps Department — EC · Sep 2026 · verified 21 Sep 2026How to get one
Search on the department's EC service using the document number, or the survey or house number and village. Choose a long period — many buyers check 30 years — so the full history appears.
Registration & Stamps Department — EC · Sep 2026 · verified 21 Sep 2026What it does not show
An EC only shows registered documents. Unregistered agreements, court cases and some government claims will not appear. Combine it with land records, the sanctioned plan and a lawyer's title opinion.
Registration & Stamps Department — EC · Sep 2026 , Registration & Stamps Department — buyer advice · Sep 2026 · verified 21 Sep 2026What to look for
Check that the seller's name is the last owner on the EC. If a mortgage appears, ask for the bank's release letter and confirm the release deed is registered.
Registration & Stamps Department — buyer advice · Sep 2026 · verified 21 Sep 2026Questions
Does a clean EC mean the title is clear?
No. It only shows registered documents. Pair it with land records and a lawyer's title opinion.