Buying a plot or house in Islamabad: checks before you pay

How CDA approves private schemes

CDA says private housing schemes are allowed in specific zones of Islamabad Capital Territory (Zones 2, 4 and 5, and Sector E-11). CDA approves a scheme in two steps:

1. The Layout Plan (LOP) is approved.
2. After further formalities, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for development is issued.

CDA also issues a Completion Certificate once development matches the approved plan. CDA publishes a list of registered schemes on its housing schemes page.

Who regulates what

• CDA regulates the planning and development of private schemes, and building control inside them.
• Allotment and transfer of plots are handled by the scheme's sponsor, not CDA.
• Co-operative housing societies are registered with the Registrar of Co-operative Societies (ICT Administration). Private limited companies are regulated by SECP.

Before you pay

• Check the scheme on CDA's official list, and ask to see its LOP and NOC.
• Verify the plot's file and transfer directly with the society office.
• Pay through bank channels in the society's official name and keep every receipt.
• Consider asking a lawyer to review the documents.

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