A glossy sales floor plan and an **approved building plan** are not the same document. In Kolkata, an apartment can look finished yet still have unresolved questions about the permitted use of floors, total built-up area, balcony alterations, parking, fire access or the building's approval conditions. Buyers should verify the actual sanctioned plan and any subsequent revisions before signing.
Start with the right authority
Identify the **exact premises address, plot number and local approval authority**. For a property within Kolkata Municipal Corporation limits, KMC provides building-related services and search options. For other municipal areas, the West Bengal Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Department describes the e-Grihanaksha online sanction system. New Town projects may involve NKDA or other competent authorities. Do not use a generic portal merely because a listing says “Kolkata”.
The developer should supply the sanction reference number, approval date, latest revised plan, competent authority and any condition attached to approval. Note the building block, floor and flat number you are buying.
The documents you should ask for
- Stamped or digitally signed **sanctioned site and building plans**, including elevations and sections where applicable.
- All amended or revised plans, with dates and approval numbers.
- Flat-specific drawing and carpet-area statement connected to your booking.
- Fire and other statutory clearances where applicable to the project.
- Written clarification of sanctioned parking levels, common areas and amenities.
- Valid completion, occupancy or other certificates required for the building's stage and jurisdiction.
- WBRERA project registration details where the law requires registration.
Ask the developer to show the actual sanctioned documents, not photographs of one page with the identifying fields hidden.
Compare what is approved with what you see
During the site visit, check the tower name, floor number, staircase positions, elevator lobby, parking entrances and common facilities against approved drawings. A sample flat can contain temporary finishes or partitions that do not appear in the sanctioned layout. Ask which elements are marketing displays rather than permanent approved work.
Look for obvious changes in setback spaces, access roads, terrace usage, added rooms or converted common areas. A buyer is not expected to be a structural engineer. For a substantial investment, hiring an independent architect or engineer to compare documents can prevent an expensive mistake.
