Safe renting - Land Registry Checks explained

Have you ever wondered what a land registry check is? It’s an important step in renting, and it's something that landlords are legally required to do. 

Land Registry checks are used to find out whether the property you're looking at has any outstanding claims on it. 

 

This includes mortgages, short-term leases, bankruptcy proceedings, etc. 

 

The information will be recorded on the public registers of deeds, so if there's anything wrong with the property then it'll show up during your check. 

 

A lot of people don't know why they need one - but this blog post aims to explain everything! 

So, when do you need a land registry check? 

 

The simple answer is: before you sign any tenancy agreement. 

If the landlord hasn't already done a check, then it's your responsibility to organise one - and remember, it's always best to be safe than sorry.  

The good news is that they're not expensive and can usually be done in a day. 

 

If you pay your rent directly into your bank account, then this makes things even easier as you'll already have the necessary documentation without having to ask your landlord. 

 

If you're not sure who is responsible for getting a land registry check, it's best to double-check with them before committing yourself to anything - and if they can't give you an answer straight away then don't be afraid of asking questions! 

 

The last thing anyone wants is for something to go wrong further down the line. 

 

So, what happens if you don't have a land registry check? 

The bottom line is that land registry checks are an important part of renting in the UK.  

They protect everyone involved and can help give peace of mind when looking for a new place. 

 

 

You may also want to know: 

 

- If you're caught without one then you could face a fine of up to £500, so it's not something you want to miss. 

 

- Land registry checks need to be renewed or updated on a regular basis - usually every five years. 

 

- The process is relatively straightforward, and most people can have the check done in a day. 

 

- It's always best to be safe than sorry, so make sure you get a land registry check before signing any tenancy agreement! 

 

So, there you have it - everything you need to know about land registry checks! If you still have any questions, then don't hesitate to get in touch.  

We're more than happy to help! 

 

0116 340 9989 

lettings@thepropertyfox.co.uk