Agreement Checklist

For high-value transactions (property sale, complex commercial contracts), a lawyer review is strongly recommended. For simpler documents (rent agreements, basic service contracts), using a checklist like this along with a registered template is usually sufficient for most people.

An unregistered rent agreement for periods under 11 months is valid between the parties but may not be admissible as evidence in court. Sale deeds and lease agreements over 11 months must be registered with the Sub-Registrar under the Registration Act, 1908 to be enforceable.

An Agreement to Sell is a preliminary contract stating the intention to sell at a future date with specified conditions. A Sale Deed is the final document that transfers ownership. An Agreement to Sell does not transfer title — only a registered Sale Deed does.

Yes. Any standard template can be negotiated and modified before signing. Strike out clauses you don't agree with, write the changes in ink, and have both parties initial each change. Keep a copy before submitting. Do not sign a blank or incomplete agreement.

A lock-in period is a minimum period during which neither party can terminate the agreement without penalty. For example, a 6-month lock-in means even if you want to vacate in month 3, you must pay rent up to month 6 (or pay an agreed penalty). Always ensure the lock-in period applies equally to both landlord and tenant.