Did you know? – Voluntary First Registration

- that 30% of Land in England and Wales is unregistered *

- that even if your title is currently unregistered you can apply to the land Registry for this to be registered.

What is registration?

All land and property ownership in England and Wales is subject to a system of registration at the Land Registry. Land registration confers benefits and safeguards to property owners and you may take advantage of these by applying voluntarily to have your title registered.

Currently you need to keep your deeds safely and have to use these to 'prove' your title. Each individual document is important. If the deeds are lost or are incomplete in any way then this can cause difficulties, delays and expense. Registration simplifies this for you, and provides you with certainty and security.

Why register?

If you register your title:

• The extent of your property will be shown on a Land Registry filed plan
• The Land Registry guarantees your title
• The Land Registry hold your title electronically which means that there are no deeds which can be lost
• You will receive a copy of your title from the Land Registry and copies can be obtained by your legal representatives electronically on your behalf when required
• Your interest in and title to the property is protected by being part of a public register
• You will have security and certainty as to what you own
• It will simplify any subsequent transactions whether in your lifetime or by your executors and beneficiaries in the event of your death

The Land Registry offer a 25% discount on their usual fees, for a voluntary registration based on the value of your property as follows:

Need more information ?

For more information, or to instruct us to apply to the Land Registry for the registration of your title please speak to your usual Wards contact, or email Susan Ellis onsusan.ellis@wards.uk.com.

Land Registry website

This guide is not intended to be definitive or to act as a substitute for legal advice.