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We've put together some basic questions and answers about the local authority search (also known as land charges) process and how the system works. Scroll down the page to see them.
What Is A Local Authority Search?
A Local Land Charges Search is required whenever a property is purchased, leased or re-mortgaged. This gives you information on the existence of obligations or "charges" enforceable against the property/land, which you need to know about.
What Is The Difference Between An Official Search And A Personal Search?
An official search is certified by the council and if anything goes wrong the Local Land Charges Act 1975 makes provision for statutory compensation . If a personal search is carried out this will not apply and you will not be able to rely on Section 10(3) which relates to compensation for loss.
The form CON29 questionnaire can only be completed by trained Council staff who have access to definitive information such as highways schemes, parking restrictions, traffic calming measures, Building Control and Environmental Health notices.
A personal search can be made by calling in to the Council's offices but the search result is from the Register of Local land Charges and does not include CON29 information and is not certified unless the personal search company requests this from the Council at an additional cost.
How Much Does It Cost?
The latest schedule of fees is available by clicking on the link below:
How Long Does It Take?
Normally a standard local search is processed and returned to your solicitor within 2 working days.
What Information Will It Tell Me?
A standard local search will give you a full planning history on your property/land plus any legally binding charges. It will also give you information on:
Can you tell me who owns land or property?
Unfortunately we can't do that. Please contact the Land Registry on 0151 472 6666.
Do You Answer Drainage Enquiries?
No, but please contact:
United Utilities Water Ltd
Map Services Direct
PO Box 30
New Town House
Warrington
WA1 2QGl
Tel: 0870 7510101.
Do You Answer Landfill Enquiries?
Yes. This can be asked as part of a Local Land Charges Search at an additional fee.
Please refer to the latest schedule of fees available at the link below:
