Question
My father passed away about a year ago. Before his death, he bought some property with his hard-earned money. However, the property was never registered in his name. Now, some of the people who sold the land to him are unwilling to sign any documents. As his heir, how can my family and I claim ownership of this property?
Answer
To claim ownership of your late father’s unregistered property, follow these steps:
- Gather Documents: Collect any documents that show your father’s connection to the property, such as sale agreements, payment receipts, or witness statements. These documents can support your claim.
- Seek Mediation: Try to negotiate with the sellers. Mediation, especially with trusted local community members, may help persuade them to sign.
- File a Case in Court: If mediation fails, file a suit in a civil court for a “declaration of title” to legally claim ownership. Present all available proof of the sale to the judge.
- Inheritance Certificate: Obtain an inheritance certificate from the local authorities. This will legally confirm your status as a rightful heir and support your claim in court.
- Consult a Lawyer: A property lawyer can help navigate the process and strengthen your case. This increases your chances of success in court.