The process of transferring land ownership records from the seller's name to the buyer's name in government revenue records.
Mutation is the administrative process of updating government revenue records after a property transfer. It changes the name on the Patta from the old owner to the new owner. Also called 'name transfer' or 'patta transfer,' mutation is the final step in completing a land transaction in government records. Without mutation, the revenue records continue to show the previous owner's name even though legal ownership has transferred through the registered Sale Deed.
To initiate mutation, apply at the Taluk office with the registered Sale Deed, existing Patta, encumbrance certificate, and tax payment receipts. The Revenue Inspector conducts a field verification and submits a recommendation to the Tahsildar, who approves or rejects the mutation. Upon approval, a new Patta is issued in the buyer's name. The process typically takes 30 to 90 days, though delays are common in practice.
Without mutation, the Patta still shows the old owner's name, which creates complications for future transactions, loan applications, and property tax administration. Mutation is NOT automatic after registration — the buyer must apply for it separately. During due diligence, always check whether mutation has been completed for the most recent transaction. If the current seller's name does not appear on the Patta, investigate why mutation was not completed — it could indicate a disputed or incomplete prior transaction.
A revenue document issued by the Tamil Nadu government that records the current owner of a land parcel.
A legally registered document that transfers ownership of immovable property from seller to buyer.
The primary land register maintained at the village level by the Revenue Department, recording ownership, classification, and extent of every survey number.
A unique numeric identifier assigned to each land parcel by the Revenue Department during the original land survey.
Connect your land intelligence workflow with these powerful tools.
Start a free 14-day Pro trial. No credit card required.
Start Free Trial