Guide to Voluntary Land Registration

Protecting Your Property Rights

When land and property changes hands, buyers traditionally received bundles of title deeds evidencing their ownership. These have evolved from elaborate handwritten documents with wax seals to modern digital records.

⬜ What is Land Registration?

The Land Registry has been registering properties for years during certain transactions. Instead of large deed bundles, owners now receive a snapshot of the Land Register with a title plan showing the extent of ownership and a unique title number.

⬜ Benefits of Registration

Land Registration provides several advantages:

  • Protection against boundary disputes
  • Prevention of squatters acquiring land through long-term occupation
  • Electronic records if original deeds are lost
  • Official guarantee from the Land Registry
  • Protection against property fraud

⬜ Why Consider Voluntary Registration?

Many local properties remain unregistered, which can lead to issues:

  • Boundary disputes when fences are moved without permission
  • Risk of land being used by others without your knowledge
  • Difficulty proving ownership if deeds are lost
  • Increased vulnerability to property fraud

The Registration Process

While Land Registry processing times have increased since COVID, applications can be expedited if you need to sell your property or proceed with another application. Your original deeds are normally returned along with your new register, simplifying future conveyancing.


The Land Registry offers discounted fees for voluntary registration applications, based on the approximate value of your land. Even if deeds have been lost, it’s possible to apply for voluntary registration to establish clear ownership.

Additional Protection Measures

For added security, restrictions can be placed on the title to protect your interests by preventing disposal or changes without certain actions taking place. The Land Registry also operates an electronic notification scheme for registered land, alerting owners of any applications made regarding their title.

If your property is unregistered and you would like to benefit from the
protection afforded by registering your land, please contact our property
team on 01789 772955 for a quote or guidance on how we can assist
you

By Lesley Siemonek