When a housing project is completed, flat owners usually feel that their responsibility ends with taking possession of their homes. But the most crucial step for long-term security is often ignored — the transfer of land and building rights from the builder to the co-operative housing society. Let’s understand why this is so important in simple terms.
Imagine buying a car but the RC book still shows the dealer’s name instead of yours. Would you feel secure? Similarly, if land is not transferred, the builder continues to be the legal owner of your building. By getting conveyance or deemed conveyance, the society’s name is recorded as the rightful owner.
There have been cases where builders or their heirs later claim rights over the land or try to use it for their benefit. If the society does not have the land in its name, members may face years of legal battles. Once conveyance is done, the society’s rights are legally protected.
Without conveyance, members cannot independently decide on repairs, redevelopment, or improvements. For example:
If the building needs major repairs, the builder’s consent is often required.
In case of redevelopment, only the legal owner (builder) can take the decision.
With conveyance, the society has full control over its future.
In places like Mumbai, Thane, and Pune, redevelopment is common. Builders often delay transferring land because they want to keep control over future redevelopment rights. Once the society gets ownership, members can negotiate redevelopment terms directly and ensure maximum benefits for themselves.
A society with proper ownership can easily get approvals for solar panels, parking expansions, or government schemes. Without conveyance, applications often get stuck because the builder is still listed as the landowner.
Q1. We already have our flats, why should we bother about land transfer?
Because without it, your building still legally belongs to the builder. Flats are safe only when the society owns the land and structure.
Q2. What if the builder refuses to give conveyance?
The law allows societies to apply for Deemed Conveyance through the competent authority. This gives you ownership even without the builder’s co-operation.
Q3. Does it cost a lot of money?
Some costs are involved for legal procedures and government fees, but compared to the long-term benefits and security, it is a wise investment.
Q4. Can redevelopment happen without conveyance?
No. Only the legal landowner can initiate redevelopment. Without conveyance, your society may miss out on future redevelopment benefits.
Transfer of land to a housing society is not just a formality — it is the foundation of secure home ownership. It protects you from legal disputes, gives your society independence, and ensures that redevelopment benefits go directly to the members. Every flat owner should actively support and complete the conveyance or deemed conveyance process for a safe and secure future.