EMPTY PROPERTY? RESTRICT TITLE TO PROTECT AGAINST FRAUD

In a bid to fight fraud, the Land Registry has removed the fee payable to enter a restriction when a property is unoccupied (because the owner is abroad or in long term care).  This restriction means that a Solicitor has to certify the Seller's identity.  If the property is occupied then the fee remains at £50.00.

In 2010, 23 of the 71 fraud and forgery claims the Land Registry paid out on, related to unoccupied property.

If you own a property that you do not live in, and would like to take advantage of this, then please contact our Residential Property team on 01708 784000.