Land Registry delays are a growing concern for many, with the latest updates from the Land Registry indicating the following average processing times for applications:

• Transfer of existing title: approximately 4-9 months
• Transfer of part: between 12-20 months
• First registration: approximately 16-17 months

The increased delays are being caused by several factors including changes to the application system (the online application portal was intended to speed up the processing times, but is a work in progress as it does not currently cater for all types of application), reduced staff and service lines at the Land Registry and the ongoing backlog of applications generated by the housing boom immediately following the Covid pandemic.

As professionals in the property and real estate sector, staying informed about Land Registry processing times is crucial for our planning and client management.
Several elements impact these processing times, including the current volume of applications received by the Land Registry, the complexity of each individual transaction and the accuracy and progress of applications already underway.

However, once the application is submitted to the Land Registry, rest assured that your application is “priority protected” which means that if another application is lodged at a later date against the title, your application takes priority.

It is worth noting that Land Registry applications can be expedited where the delay is causing, or will cause, financial hardship, or if there is a pending property transaction. A request to expedite must be accompanied by evidence, such as a Memorandum of Sale from an estate agent or mortgage offer from a lender, and is made via the business portal. The Land Registry will review the evidence once a request has been submitted in 1-2 days and if the application to expedite is approved, they will aim to complete it within 10 working days.

How TWM can help you

At TWM, we strive to ensure that all forms and required documents submitted are correctly filled out and complete, and we utilise the Land Registry’s online portal service for faster submissions, but there are many aspects of the registration process that are outside of our control.

We are committed to guiding our clients through every step of their property transaction and by keeping abreast of these updates, we aim to ensure timely and efficient service. However, clients may also wish to regularly check the Land Registry website directly for updates to their processing times or procedural updates.

For any questions or further assistance with your Land Registry application, please don’t hesitate to contact us.