The HM Land Registry plays an essential role in buying and selling property in the UK. Not every building and piece of land is registered, so if you want to know your status, what belongs to you, your rights or the history of your land, then the Land Registry’s records are a great place to start.
As well as fact-finding, you can register your current information so that the Land Registry has a copy of your Title Deeds (or other proof of ownership) on record should the worst happen. With this, you can ensure your ownership rights to your property are legally and properly documented, and you can contribute to the lasting history of your land.
Why Should I Register With HM Land Registry?
Land registration provides essential benefits for its owner. It prepares your property for future transactions and safeguards against potential claims of possession from other people.
If you haven’t registered your land with HM Land Registry, or if you are uncertain of its status, PLS Solicitors can help you solve these issues with ease. With our help, you can enhance your legal security and document your proof of ownership, which could be crucial should a dispute arise. By formalising ownership through registration, individuals gain added protections and clarity in future dealings.
If you’re planning to sell or transfer your property to someone else, being on the Land Registry will simplify that process for all parties. Your property’s title and status will become clearer and more accessible, which will speed up your sale.
The History Of HM Land Registry
The concept of a registry in England can be traced as far back as William The Conqueror’s 1086 “Domesday Book”; however, in comparison to that, HM Land Registry is a little more up-to-date. The registry was introduced in 1925 following almost 100 years of unsuccessful attempts at centralising England & Wales’ land ownership records. The Land Registration Act of 1925 arrived with a slew of other sweeping reforms which revolutionised property ownership in the UK, and still contributes to the robust system of Conveyancing we have in place today.
The LRA 1925 became a helpful part of property transactions and finally established that crucial central registry. However, it wasn’t until 1990 when registration began to be applied more widely to sales. From that year, all transfers – including gifts, sales, and inheritance – have been registered with HM Land Registry automatically. Almost every property transaction will trigger an update or creation of an official registry entry. The Act was updated again in 2002.
Within the time-frame of land, property and home ownership, 2002 was a relatively short-time ago. This is why if you have any uncertainties in regards to your property’s status within the registry, then it’s time to give PLS Solicitors a call and we’ll sort it for you.
How To Register Land And Property With The Land Registry
If your property is unregistered and you’d like PLS Solicitors to look into it, here’s how our process typically works:
Application Preparation: We make a detailed plan of your land boundaries, using a multitude of legally recognised sources. We collect any information you may have and conduct vital research on your property to establish proof of ownership. We calculate any fees HMS Land Registry will charge you and report them to you transparently and jargon-free.
Document Submission and Examination: The application, alongside supporting documents and payment, is submitted to the Land Registry for review. The Land Registry examines the application to verify the ownership claim, the boundaries, and any existing rights or restrictions (like public access routes).
Official Registration: If all information is in order, the Land Registry will add the land to its register, assigning it a title number and creating an official title plan that reflects ownership, boundaries, and any legal obligations.
Unregistering Land with the Land Registry
While unusual, unregistering land is possible. PLS Solicitors have completed this process for some of our clients in specific circumstances – such as land being merged with another title, being transferred to public ownership or being submerged/destroyed. If you find yourself needing to unregister land, let us know and PLS Solicitors’ experienced team will guide you through it.
Update Your Records Today and Keep Track Of Your Rights
Ensuring correct and up-to-date records in the Land Registry is a crucial part of good Estate Management, whether you are selling your property or not. It offers security and transparency in ownership, that could make all the difference to you when you need it most.
To make sure this process is done right, reach out to PLS Solicitors, Monday – Saturday, on 03300 565 423 or submit an enquiry form online.
