Land Registry new digital Local Search

Land Registry is working with local authorities in England to standardise and move their local land charges register information to one accessible place. Their aim is to make the home buying process simpler, faster and cheaper in doing so.

Local land charges searches are normally required in the property-buying process. Most local land charges are restrictions or prohibitions on the use of the property.

The common obligations protected as local land charges include:

• planning permissions (these form the majority of charges)
• listed buildings
• conservation areas
• tree preservation orders
• improvement and renovation grants
• smoke control zone conditions
• light obstruction notice conditions

Local authorities maintain a local land charges register for their administrative area. Prices also vary considerably and this has led to an inconsistent service for customers depending on their postcode.

Anyone can access the new Local Land Charges service through the Land Registry. There will be an option to download a personal search for free or an official search for £15. Alternatively you can use a search provider who will access this for you. Local authorities will continue to provide replies to certain enquiries, such as nearby road schemes or outstanding notices, which may affect a purchaser’s decision whether to proceed.