Verify Registered Data on Ownership, Mortgage, and Encumbrances

Verification of ownership, mortgage, and encumbrances: legal support for confidence in acquiring or holding property in the United Kingdom

The service of verifying registered data on ownership, mortgage, and encumbrances is critically important for anyone planning to purchase property in the UK or already owning it. Legal verification via Land Registry ensures the validity of ownership rights, absence of hidden restrictions and prohibitions, and mortgage obligations that may affect the use or sale of the asset. 

The service is requested by buyers, investors, heirs, business owners, or tenants seeking to avoid financial and legal risks.

Verification of the Registered Property Owner in Land Registry

Having up-to-date information about the property owner is a primary condition for safe transaction execution. Clients often request verification before purchase, inheritance, or signing a lease agreement.

Solicitor’s actions:

1. Collecting property data (address, registration number) from the client;
2. Requesting an extract from Land Registry;
3. Analysing ownership rights, their origin dates, and previous transactions;
4. Establishing the circumstances under which the owner acquired the title;
5. Assessing the legality of registry entries.

Outcome: the client receives a legal opinion confirming (or refuting) ownership rights to the property, helping avoid fraud, invalid transactions, or double sale.

Verification of Mortgage or Debt on the Property

Before entering into a transaction, it is important to know whether the property is mortgaged or burdened with other liabilities that may transfer to the new owner.

Solicitor’s actions:

• Analysing entries in the Land Charges Register;
• Obtaining full information on mortgages, loans registered against the property;
• Assessing the duration and terms of mortgage encumbrances;
• Contacting creditors if mortgage release approval is required.

Outcome: the client receives official confirmation of the presence or absence of a mortgage, with explanations of legal consequences and next steps, including safe completion of the purchase.

Legal Check for Encumbrances, Easements, and Other Restrictions

Beyond ownership and mortgage, property may be subject to restrictions — from access obligations for neighbours to prohibitions on redevelopment.

Solicitor’s actions:

• Checking entries on easements, building restrictions, and usage conditions;
• Reviewing local development plans and council decisions;
• Assessing the impact of restrictions on use or commercial appeal of the asset;
• Providing a legal opinion on the possibility of modifying or removing encumbrances.

Outcome: the client receives a complete picture of legal restrictions on property use, enabling informed decisions on investment, renovation, or future sale.