Encumbrance Certificate (EC) Kerala: How to Apply, Download & Status Check

The Encumbrance Certificate (EC) in Kerala is an essential document that reflects a property’s ownership and transaction history. It provides proof of free title and no legal liabilities. It is primarily used during property transactions and mortgage approvals to ensure the property is free from legal disputes. 

Continue reading this article to gain detailed insights about the EC certificate Kerala, how to obtain it, and more. 

Kerala Encumbrance Certificate (EC)

In Kerala, an Encumbrance Certificate (EC) is a document that validates the absence or presence of claims and liabilities on the property. It records all transactions carried out on the property, including mortgages, sales, loans, etc. Thus, this certificate is essential for buyers and sellers to verify the ownership and confirm that the property is free from legal disputes during the sale transaction. 

Types of Encumbrance Certificates in Kerala

The two main different types of Encumbrance Certificates in Kerala are as follows:

Form 15

EC Form 15 is issued when legal and financial encumbrances exist on the property. It details any existing liabilities, such as loans or legal claims, associated with the property. 

Form 16

EC Form 16 is issued when there have been no encumbrances during the specified period in the application. It assures both buyers and lenders regarding the clear title of a property. 

How to Apply for an Encumbrance Certificate in Kerala?

Here are the detailed steps on how to apply for an encumbrance certificate online in Kerala:

Step 1: Go to the Kerala Registration Department website.

Step 2: Click the ‘Certificates’ tab and then choose the ‘Application for Encumbrance Certificate’ option.

Step 3: On the next page, select ‘Yes’, enter the characters shown on the screen in the respective box and click ‘Proceed’.

Step 4: The application will open. Fill it out by providing the application’s details, document/ title deeds details, property details, and boundary details, and click the ‘Save/Update’ button.

Step 5: Next, to fetch the approximate fees charged, enter the search period details and click on the ‘Calculate Fee’ option. Your fee amount will soon be displayed in the Fee Details section.

Step 6: Read the declaration and enter the property owner's name in the blank space provided. State the purpose of the certificate and check the ‘I Agree’ button.

Step 7: Further, click on the ‘Submit Application’ button to submit your application form. The next page will display the submission of application form confirmation.

Step 8: Click on the ‘View Acknowledgement’ button, print the slip, and download it for future reference. 

Follow the steps below to apply for your Encumbrance Certificate offline in Kerala:

Step 1: Visit the Sub-Registrar’s office where the property is located. 

Step 2: Collect Form 22 of the Encumbrance Certificate and fill out the form with all relevant details.

Step 3: Attach the required documents along with Form 22 and submit them to the Sub-Registrar’s office.

Step 4: Pay the fees as applicable according to the defined period of encumbrance 

Step 5: Collect the acknowledgement slip from the respective officer. 

How to Check Encumbrance Certificate Status in Kerala?

Here are the detailed steps to follow for checking Encumbrance Certificate status in Kerala:

Step 1: Go to the Kerala Registration Department website.

Step 2: Click the ‘Application Status/ Download’ option.

Step 3: Enter the ‘Transaction ID’ and captcha code and click ‘Check Status’.

Step 4: If the status displays ‘Certificate Issued’, proceed to click the ‘Download Certificate’ option to download the certificate.

Processing Time for Encumbrance Certificate in Kerala

The Encumbrance Certificate Kerala processing time varies based on the application method. For online applications, the processing time is approximately 2-3 working days. In contrast, offline applications may take longer, around 15-30 working days. It may take additional time if any further checks are required from the authorities.

How to Download an Encumbrance Certificate in Kerala?

Follow the below steps to download the Encumbrance certificate in Kerala: 

Step 1: Go to the Kerala Registration Department website.

Step 2: Click the ‘Application Status/ Download’ option.

Step 3: Enter the ‘Transaction ID’ and captcha code and click ‘Check Status’.

Step 4: If the status displays ‘Certificate Issued’, click the ‘Download Certificate’ option to download the certificate.

Fees for EC Certificate in Kerala

The table below displays the fees for EC in Kerala:

Non-Encumbrance Certificate in Kerala

A Non-Encumbrance Certificate (NEC) in Kerala is a legal document that certifies a property is free from any legal or financial liabilities, such as loans, mortgages, or litigations. This certificate is essential for buyers and sellers during property transactions. The NEC assures parties involved that the property has a clear title and minimises the risk of unexpected encumbrances.

The Encumbrance Certificate in Kerala is essential for carrying out property transactions in Kerala. It ensures clarity regarding property ownership by providing details of any financial and legal encumbrances. While purchasing property or securing loans, the EC offers a safeguard against any hidden legal issues and makes, making it a crucial part of the property verification process.

Similar Articles:
1. Encumbrance Certificate (EC) Karnataka
2. Encumbrance Certificate (EC) AP
3. Encumbrance Certificate (EC) Tamil Nadu