Local Land Searches: Frequently Asked Questions

When you buy a house (or perhaps land) you usually go through a number of checks to make sure there are no problems with the property that would result in a charge being sought from yourself as the owner.

As part of one of those checks it is normal to have a local land charges search undertaken. This is normally organised by your solicitor or licensed conveyancer on your behalf but can also be carried out yourself.

Depending on what questions have been asked the local land charges search will amongst other things identify :

• The planning history of the site and any queries arising over its use
• The planning policies which affect the site
• Any developments directly affecting the site.
• And any Local Land Charge that would restrict use or could result in a charge being directed at the new owner of the property.