How to Search a Property on CERSAI Portal (India) – A Practical Legal Guide– Before purchasing, selling, or financing any immovable property in India, it is essential to verify whether the property is already mortgaged or charged in favour of any bank or financial institution. One of the most reliable tools for this purpose is the CERSAI portal.
The Central Registry of Securitisation Asset Reconstruction and Security Interest of India (CERSAI) is a government-maintained online registry that records security interests created over movable and immovable properties. A CERSAI search helps identify whether a property is already subject to any loan, mortgage, or charge.
This guide explains how to search a property on the CERSAI portal, in a clear and practical manner.
Why CERSAI Search is Important
A CERSAI search is an important part of property due diligence because:
- It helps detect existing home loans or mortgages
- It reduces the risk of fraudulent or double financing
- It protects buyers, lenders, and investors
- It assists advocates and banks in legal verification of assets
However, it must be understood that CERSAI search is one component of due diligence, and not a substitute for complete title verification.
Step-by-Step Process to Search Property on CERSAI
Step 1: Visit the Official CERSAI Portal
Open the official website of CERSAI:
From the homepage, select the Public Search option. This feature is available to the general public without any login.
Step 2: Select the Appropriate Search Type
CERSAI offers multiple search options depending on the information available:
1. Asset-Based Search
This is the most commonly used option. It allows you to search using property details, such as:
- Flat / Plot / Survey number
- Address and location details
- Type of asset (immovable / movable)
This method is useful when verifying a specific property before purchase or loan sanction.
2. Debtor-Based Search
This search is conducted using borrower details, such as:
- Name of the borrower
- PAN (where available)
It is useful when checking whether a particular person or entity has created security interests over multiple assets.
3. AOR-Based Search
This option is generally relevant for SARFAESI-related or enforcement-based searches and is mostly used by banks and authorised officers.
Step 3: Enter Accurate Details
Fill in the required fields carefully, based on the selected search type.
Accuracy is critical. Even minor variations in spelling, numbers, or address details may affect the search result.
Step 4: Complete Captcha and Proceed
Enter the captcha code displayed on the screen and proceed to the payment page.
Step 5: Pay the Prescribed Search Fee
CERSAI charges a nominal fee for conducting a public search. The payment can be made online through available digital modes.
Step 6: View and Download Search Results
After successful payment, the system will display the search result:
- If a security interest is registered, details of the lender and asset will appear
- If no record is found, it indicates that no security interest is registered on CERSAI for the provided details
The report can be viewed and downloaded for record purposes.
Important Legal Points to Keep in Mind
- Absence of a record on CERSAI does not automatically confirm clear title
- Some older or exempt transactions may not be reflected
- Errors or incomplete data entry by lenders may affect results
- A CERSAI report must always be read along with title deeds, chain documents, and possession records
Conclusion
A CERSAI property search is a valuable and necessary step in modern property transactions. It enhances transparency and helps identify registered mortgages or security interests at an early stage.
However, for complete legal safety, CERSAI search should be treated as one part of a comprehensive property due diligence process, which includes examination of title documents, registration records, and applicable statutory compliances.
Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Property transactions should always be undertaken after proper legal consultation and document verification.