A typical project needs land use clearance from RAJUK, building permission based on approved drawings, and construction supervised in line with the approval, followed by an occupancy certificate on completion. Depending on size, height and location, the project may also need environmental clearance from the Department of Environment, fire-safety plan approval from the Fire Service and Civil Defence Directorate, aviation height clearance near airports, and utility connections. Developers must also comply with registration and conduct requirements under the Real Estate Development and Management Act 2010. We map the route for each site. The right sequence avoids redesign.

The Detailed Area Plan adopted in 2022 introduced zone-based controls and linked permitted floor area to factors such as road width and local infrastructure, while protecting flood flow zones, wetlands and open spaces. As a result, some sites can support less floor area than owners expected, and land values and joint venture terms have been renegotiated in places. We check the current designation and rules for a site before land is bought or a joint venture is signed, so the commercial terms reflect what can lawfully be built. Many property development disputes now stem from outdated floor area assumptions.

A landowner should check the developer's track record, registration, financial strength and pending disputes, and should insist on a detailed agreement covering the flat allocation, specifications, approval responsibilities, timelines, delay compensation, signing money, the scope of any power of attorney, and termination rights. The power of attorney should be limited to what the developer actually needs and should not allow sale of the landowner's share. Registration of the documents is important. We act for landowners in negotiating these terms and checking the developer before the land is committed. Signing in haste is the most common and expensive mistake landowners make.

Start by reviewing the agreement for delay compensation, termination rights and dispute resolution, and collecting evidence of payments, correspondence and construction progress. The Real Estate Development and Management Act 2010 provides remedies for buyers and landowners, and civil claims for specific performance, compensation or refund may be available. Many cases settle through negotiation once the developer faces credible legal action. Where several buyers are affected, coordinated action can be more effective. We assess the options, send formal notices, and pursue proceedings or settlement depending on the client's priorities. Early, documented action usually produces the best result for buyers.

Foreign investors can participate through a Bangladesh company, joint venture or financing structure, subject to investment registration with Invest Bangladesh, foreign exchange rules and sector requirements. Direct ownership of land by foreigners is restricted and usually not practical, so structures commonly use locally incorporated companies or contractual arrangements. Repatriation of profits and capital depends on proper documentation of the inward investment. We advise on structure, approvals, land rights and exit planning for foreign investors in residential, commercial and industrial property development projects across Bangladesh. Property development by foreign investors also needs careful tax and repatriation planning.

Deviations, such as additional floors, changed setbacks or altered use, can lead to notices, fines, sealing, refusal of occupancy, refusal of utility connections and, in serious cases, demolition orders. Buyers and lenders may also be affected because title, registration and mortgage enforcement can become complicated. Some deviations can be regularised if they fall within permitted limits, while others cannot. We review the approval and as-built position, advise on regularisation options and represent owners and developers in proceedings against enforcement actions where there are grounds to challenge them. Buyers should check the as-built position against approved drawings before purchase.

An occupancy certificate confirms that the completed building has been built in accordance with its approval and is fit for use. Without it, owners may face difficulty with utility connections, insurance, mortgages, resale and enforcement, and developers may face complaints from buyers and landowners. Many buildings have been occupied without one, which creates continuing legal risk for owners and investors. We advise developers on obtaining the certificate and buyers and lenders on the risks of buildings that lack it, including contractual protections in sale and loan documents. Property development lenders increasingly insist on a clear timetable for obtaining it.

Neighbours sometimes bring civil suits for injunctions on grounds such as boundary disputes, rights of way, light and air, construction damage or alleged breach of approvals, and may complain to the development authority. Courts can grant temporary injunctions that halt construction for long periods, which damages project economics. Careful diligence, accurate boundary surveys, compliance with approvals and good construction practice reduce the risk. When a suit is filed, we respond quickly, seek to vacate unjustified injunctions and explore settlement where appropriate, while protecting the developer's legal position. Early engagement with neighbours can prevent property development disputes reaching court.