How to Verify Land Before Buying

1. Ask the seller for every document

Ask for the title document (for example a Certificate of Occupancy or a registered deed), the survey plan, previous receipts and any approvals. Read them yourself, and keep copies.

2. Confirm who the seller is

Check that the seller’s identity matches the name on the documents. For family land, find out whether the family head and the other family members agree to the sale.

3. Check the survey plan

The size, location and beacon details on the plan should match what the seller told you. A surveyor can check the plan for you. See understanding survey plans.

4. Visit the land with a surveyor

Have a surveyor compare the plan with the ground. The beacons should be in place and the boundaries and size should agree with the plan.

5. Search the records

Ask your lawyer to search the land registry for ownership records and anything registered against the land, such as a mortgage or an earlier sale.

6. Ask about government acquisition

Find out whether the land falls inside an area the government has acquired or reserved. Buying such land can leave you with nothing.

7. Speak to the neighbours

Neighbours and nearby landowners often know the history of the land and any disputes.

8. Pay safely

Use a lawyer for the sale agreement. Pay by bank transfer to the person named in the documents and keep every receipt. See also how to avoid land scams.