Land Due Diligence Checklist

Module 3 Tool • Verify State + Customary Rights

State Title Verification

Title deed obtained from land registry (original, not photocopy)

Title number verified against registry database (in-person visit, not phone)

Seller identity confirmed matches title deed exactly (ID + deed name match)

Encumbrances checked (no mortgages, liens, or court cases against property)

Survey conducted by licensed surveyor, boundaries match title

Customary Rights Assessment

Traditional authority identified (chief, elder, clan leader for this specific area)

Historical use documented (past 20+ years: grazing, farming, sacred site, burial ground?)

Community consultation held (minimum 3 meetings with different stakeholders)

Approval documented in writing from traditional authority (witnessed by 2+ elders)

Women's groups consulted (often use land differently, separate consultation required)

Red Flags Check

No conflicting claims detected (neighbors, family members, previous "owners")

Seller not under pressure to sell quickly (urgent sale = potential fraud indicator)

Price reasonable (not 50%+ below market = likely problem with title)

Legal counsel reviewed (local lawyer with land specialization, not general practice)

0% Complete

⚠️ Critical: DO NOT proceed with <100% checklist completion. "3 Chiefs Rule" from Module 15 applies: If you can't get clear approval from state (title), customary (chief), AND legal (lawyer), land is contested. Walk away.