Inherited property in Kolkata? Without mutation, you don't legally own it in KMC's records — even if you have a will. Here's the complete guide.
What Is Property Mutation?
Property mutation is the process of updating the ownership records in the Kolkata Municipal Corporation's (KMC) database to reflect a change in ownership. It is not the same as registration of the property deed — that happens at the Sub-Registrar's office. Mutation happens at KMC and affects your property tax records, your ability to pay property tax, and your legal standing as the owner in municipal records.
Without mutation, you may have a registered deed in your name, but KMC still sends property tax bills to the previous owner. And if you want to sell the property, the buyer's lawyer will flag the discrepancy immediately.
When Is Mutation Required?
Mutation is required whenever ownership changes: after a purchase, after inheritance (following the death of the previous owner), after a gift deed, or after a court order transferring ownership.
Documents Required for Mutation After Inheritance
This is the most common scenario for NRI clients. You will need: the death certificate of the previous owner; the original title deed; a succession certificate or probate of will (if there is a will) or a legal heir certificate (if there is no will); identity documents of all legal heirs; and a no-objection certificate from other heirs if only one heir is applying.
The Process
The mutation application is submitted to the relevant KMC borough office. The application is reviewed, a notice is published (giving other potential claimants an opportunity to object), and if no objection is received within the prescribed period, the mutation is approved and the records are updated.
Standard timeline: 4–8 weeks for uncontested cases. Contested cases (where another party claims ownership) require legal intervention and can take significantly longer.
What If the Property Has Not Been Mutated for Decades?
This is very common with inherited property. The property may have changed hands two or three times through inheritance without mutation being done at each stage. In these cases, we work backwards through the chain of ownership, obtaining the necessary documents for each transfer, and submit a consolidated mutation application. This is complex work, but it is what we do.
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