We are seeing an increase in demand regarding the first registration of properties where Deeds have been lost.
Whilst unregistered property is increasingly rare, following the introduction of compulsory registration, it is still present in properties that have been owned by the same owners for a long time. If a property is being sold, and is unregistered at that time, the property will need to go through first registration and the title Deeds to the Property are required for this.
“Lost Deeds” can cause many people to worry about the first registration of their property or feel that they are stuck and cannot progress with a sale. However, lost Deeds do not mean that you cannot register your property, or that you are without options.
Where are Deeds usually stored?
It is commonly the case that many people’s Deeds are held at a solicitor’s office, usually the solicitor that was instructed previously, or that you have had an ongoing relationship with. However, there are occasions when Deeds have been kept at home or by banks and mortgage providers and it is increasingly common for these Deeds to become lost.
Can I still register or sell my property if my Deeds are lost?
Whilst Deeds are inevitably important in the registration of a property if you wish to sell, registration can often still go ahead, and we are able to help you with that process.
The most important objective in registering a property with lost Deeds is that you establish who owns the Property, as opposed to what Deeds were previously available. This means that you will be expected to provide a detailed account of the events that have led to the loss or destruction of the Deeds.
Our Dispute Resolution Team have extensive experience in assisting clients with applications to the Land Registry to register an interest in a property where Deeds have been lost or destroyed. The Team are here to provide advice and assistance and to draft the relevant forms to make the registration of your property as straightforward as possible.
If you would like advice in respect of the above, please do contact the Dispute Resolution Team on 01743 248545 or contact us via email on mail@hatchers.co.uk
