📋 Legal Checklist Before Buying Commercial Property in Pakistan

Before finalizing a commercial property deal, it's essential to go through a legal checklist to avoid future disputes and financial loss. Here’s what to include:

1. Verify Ownership
   Request the Fard (record of rights) and Registry documents to confirm the seller is the legal owner.

2. Check Title Chain
   Ensure there’s a complete, unbroken history of ownership to avoid fraudulent transfers.

3. Zoning Verification
   Confirm with local development authorities (LDA, CDA, SBCA) that the property is zoned for commercial use.

4. Obtain the Mutation Document (Intiqal)
   This certifies that the property was properly transferred to the seller.

5. Check Approved Building Plans
   Especially for built properties, verify that construction complies with approved plans.

6. Tax Clearance
   Request property tax receipts to ensure there are no outstanding dues.

7. NOC Verification
   Ensure that all required No Objection Certificates (e.g., for utilities, road access, EPA clearance) are obtained.

8. Possession Certificate
   For newly constructed units, this proves that the developer has handed over legal possession to the current owner.

Consult a real estate lawyer to help interpret these documents and verify their authenticity before making payment.