Lahore: The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) has announced a major reform in the real estate sector, introducing a fully digital property transaction system aimed at improving transparency and eliminating fraudulent practices.
According to an official notification, all property buying and selling within LDA-controlled housing schemes will be carried out exclusively through a Property Certificate issued by the Punjab Land Records Authority (PLRA) starting July 1. The authority said no transaction will be legally recognised without this certificate.
Officials stated that any sale or transfer conducted without the mandatory Property Certificate will result in legal action under the LDA Act 1975. The move is aimed at strengthening legal protection for property owners and ensuring secure, verifiable records.
The new system introduces QR-coded certificates that will allow instant access to complete ownership and property details, significantly reducing the risk of forged documents and unauthorized dealings.
With the implementation of the reform, the long-standing file-based property trading system will be discontinued within LDA’s jurisdiction.
All private housing schemes have been directed to transfer their records to the Housing Societies Management System (HSMS) by June 30. Officials added that housing schemes will be able to issue digital certificates and registries through an online portal.
The system will also be integrated with the sub-registrar’s office functions to streamline approvals, improve record-keeping, and enhance coordination between departments.
LDA officials said the initiative is part of broader efforts to digitize land records, curb malpractice in the property sector, and ensure greater transparency for citizens and investors.
Samra Zulfiqar, a real estate analyst at Zameen.com, is passionate about finding projects that offer buyers the best returns. Her keen insights spotlight the market’s most promising opportunities.
