A Detailed Overview of ‘A Khata’, ‘B Khata’ Certificates: Meaning, Differences, & Conversion Process

A ‘Khata’ is a document that records property tax details maintained by municipal authorities in Karnataka. It serves as proof of a property’s legal existence and compliance with local regulations, including payment of property taxes. The term ‘Khata’ essentially means ‘account,’ referring to the tax account associated with a property. 

Meaning and Key Features of ‘A Khata’ 

‘A Khata’ refers to properties that fully comply with the Karnataka Municipal Corporation Act, 1976 and other building by-laws. These properties are considered legal, with proper approvals for construction and usage. Owning an ‘A Khata’ certificate allows property owners to apply for loans, obtain building licenses, and conduct property-related transactions. 

‘A Khata’ properties come with several key features, including compliance with municipal regulations, eligibility for building permits and property loans, and simplification of property transactions such as sales or transfers. 

Meaning and Key Features of ‘B Khata’

‘B Khata’ represents properties that are deemed semi-legal due to non-compliance with certain municipal laws. These properties may lack proper approvals or violate building by-laws. While ‘B Khata’ properties are recognised by municipal authorities, they are considered irregular. 

Owners of ‘B Khata’ properties are not eligible for loans or building permits, which can restrict their financial and developmental options. Additionally, legal transactions involving ‘B Khata’ properties, such as sales or transfers, may encounter significant challenges due to their semi-legal status. 

Who is Eligible for ‘Khata’? 

Property owners who meet the following criteria can apply for a ‘Khata’ certificate: 

1. Ownership of legal or semi-legal property within municipal limits. 
2. Payment of all pending property taxes. 
3. Compliance with building by-laws and zoning regulations (for ‘A Khata’). 

Khata Registration and Transfer

To register or transfer a Khata certificate, property owners must follow these steps: 

1. Submit an application to the local municipal authority with necessary documents, including the sale deed, tax receipts, and building plan. 
2. Pay the applicable fees for registration or transfer. 
3. Await verification by municipal authorities before receiving the Khata certificate. 

What is the Difference Between ‘A Khata’ and ‘B Khata’?

Aspect	‘A Khata’	‘B Khata’
Compliance	Fully compliant with municipal laws	Semi-legal, lacks full compliance
Loan Eligibility	Eligible for home and property loans	Not eligible for loans
Building Permits	Can apply for building licences	Cannot apply for building licences
Property Transactions	Smooth and hassle-free	May face challenges

 

Process of Converting ‘B Khata’ to ‘A Khata’

Property owners can regularise ‘B Khata’ properties and convert them to ‘A Khata’ by following these steps: 

1. Clear Property Tax Dues: Ensure all outstanding property taxes are paid. 
2. Pay Betterment Charges: Submit the applicable betterment fees to the local municipal authority. 
3. Apply for Conversion: Submit an application with relevant documents, such as the property title deed, tax receipts, and building plan. 
4. Verification Process: Await municipal verification and inspection. 
5. Receive ‘A Khata’ Certificate: Once approved, the property will be reclassified under ‘A Khata.’ 

Understanding the differences between ‘A Khata’ and ‘B Khata’ is essential for property owners in Karnataka. While ‘A Khata’ ensures complete legal compliance, ‘B Khata’ properties require additional steps for regularisation. By converting ‘B Khata’ to ‘A Khata,’ property owners can enhance the value and usability of their assets.