Match a resale villa to its site plan

Resale villas in Al Reef, Khalifa City or Al Raha Gardens often show earlier owners' changes: a covered parking area, an extra room or an extended terrace. Some additions make daily life easier, but you need to know whether they match the official site plan and were approved. ADREC says alterations affecting the structure or external appearance need prior written approval from the developer or management company. Ask the seller for the site plan and any approval letters, then walk the plot with the plan in hand and compare the built areas and boundaries. Where something has no approval, ask your agent and a qualified adviser what it could mean before you commit. A villa that matches its documents can be simpler to finance, insure and sell later. Prepared by Masterpiece Property.