In Nepal, when it comes to land and property transactions, the term Four Boundary (known as चारकिल्ला in Nepali) is frequently used. This term is crucial for both buyers and sellers as it defines the exact borders and limits of a piece of land. Understanding चारकिल्ला is essential for ensuring that a property transaction is legitimate, transparent, and free from legal disputes.
In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the meaning of Four Boundary, how it works, and why it is important in the context of property transactions in Nepal.
What is Four Boundary (चारकिल्ला)?
The Four Boundary (चारकिल्ला) refers to the four main boundaries that define the perimeter of a piece of land. It essentially outlines the four sides or edges of a plot and ensures that the land being bought or sold is clearly defined and can be distinguished from surrounding plots.
In Nepali land transactions, when a property is being sold or transferred, the चारकिल्ला (Four Boundary) is used to describe the specific location and limits of the land. These boundaries are marked based on a set of landmarks, nearby features, or fixed reference points, ensuring there is no ambiguity about the property’s limits.
The Four Boundaries Include:
- East Boundary (पूर्व)
- West Boundary (पश्चिम)
- North Boundary (उत्तर)
- South Boundary (दक्षिण)
These four boundaries provide a detailed description of the property’s exact location and size, which is crucial when it comes to legal matters and avoiding disputes with neighboring properties.
How is the Four Boundary (चारकिल्ला) Determined?
The Four Boundary is determined using various methods, including:
- Physical Landmarks: The property boundaries may be defined by physical features such as roads, rivers, hills, or existing buildings. For example, a plot may be bounded by a road on the north and a river on the south.
- Surveyor’s Measurements: A land surveyor may use tools and technology (such as GPS and measuring tapes) to precisely mark and record the boundaries of a property. This is especially important for larger plots or for properties with unclear or disputed boundaries.
- Land Revenue Office Records: The Malpot Office (Land Revenue Office) plays a key role in defining and recording land boundaries. The Lalpurja (Land Ownership Certificate) will have the चारकिल्ला recorded in the official documents, listing the four boundaries with specific measurements and references.
- Agreement Between Seller and Buyer: In some cases, the seller and buyer may agree upon specific boundary descriptions, which are then verified by the authorities or surveyors to ensure accuracy.
Why is the Four Boundary (चारकिल्ला) Important?
The Four Boundary plays a crucial role in property transactions in Nepal. Here’s why it’s important:
1. Prevents Property Disputes
One of the primary reasons the Four Boundary is so important is that it helps prevent land disputes. Clear, well-defined boundaries ensure that the property being sold does not overlap or encroach on a neighboring property. Without clear boundaries, there can be confusion about the property’s limits, which can lead to legal disputes or even land grab attempts.
2. Establishes Ownership Rights
The Four Boundary is recorded on official documents like the Lalpurja, which is the Land Ownership Certificate in Nepal. By clearly marking the boundaries of the land, it establishes the ownership rights of the landowner. This makes it easier for the owner to sell or transfer the property, as the buyer can clearly see the defined area being transferred.
3. Supports Property Valuation
For buyers and sellers, the Four Boundary is essential in determining the property’s value. Accurately defining the size and location of the land helps assess its market value. The clearer the boundaries, the more confidence a buyer will have in purchasing the property at its true market value.
4. Ensures Legal Documentation
In Nepal, every land transaction requires proper documentation. When you sell a property, the Four Boundary must be mentioned in the Sale Deed, Lalpurja, and other legal documents. This makes the transaction legally valid and prevents the sale from being contested in the future.
5. Helps with Land Development
For individuals planning to build on a property, knowing the Four Boundary is essential. It ensures that the construction will stay within the legal limits of the property and avoid encroaching on neighboring plots. It also helps determine the feasibility of construction and whether the land complies with local building regulations.
How to Verify the Four Boundary (चारकिल्ला)
When buying property in Nepal, verifying the Four Boundary is an essential step. Here’s how you can do that:
- Check the Lalpurja (Land Ownership Certificate): The Lalpurja is the official document that records the ownership and boundary of the property. Make sure that the Four Boundary is clearly stated on the Lalpurja, and verify it against the physical land to ensure accuracy.
- Hire a Professional Surveyor: If the property boundaries are unclear or if you want to be extra cautious, you can hire a professional land surveyor. A surveyor can measure and mark the boundaries using modern tools and provide a certificate of authenticity.
- Visit the Malpot Office: The Malpot Office keeps records of all land ownership and boundary details. If you have any doubts about the Four Boundary, you can visit the office and request to see the official land records for verification.
- Consult the Seller’s Previous Documents: Always ask the seller for any previous documents related to the property, including maps, surveys, and receipts from the Malpot Office. This will help you verify the Four Boundary and ensure that the property being sold is free from disputes.
Conclusion
The Four Boundary (चारकिल्ला) is a fundamental concept in property transactions in Nepal. It helps define the precise limits of a property, prevents legal disputes, and establishes ownership rights. Whether you’re buying or selling property, it’s crucial to ensure that the Four Boundary is clearly defined, documented, and verified.
For a smooth and secure property transaction, always check the Lalpurja, hire a professional surveyor if needed, and consult official records to avoid any complications in the future.
