Title deeds are documents that are used to confirm the ownership history of a property. The title deeds include details of conveyancing, contracts, lease information, mortgages, and wills. These details are used to show the chain of ownership throughout the property’s history.
When are title deeds necessary?
The main reason for requiring title deeds is when buying or selling a property. Your solicitor will usually handle the process of obtaining the title deeds of the property being purchased. The solicitor will also handle updating the deeds with the new ownership information and making sure the HM Land Registry system is up to date.
Title deeds are also important in the case of a property owner passing away and leaving instructions in their will regarding the property. This is particularly important if there is ever a dispute over the deceased’s property or land, as the title deeds will be one of the first documents referred to when trying to settle the dispute.
How to get a copy of title deeds
According to the government website HM Land Registry has a website on which you can pay a small fee to download copies of a property summary, title plan, and title register. This is for properties in England and Wales, and you do not need to be the owner of the property to use the service. The website also has links for similar searches for properties in Northern Ireland and Scotland.
Property buyers or existing owners who are interested in learning about setting up a deed of trust can do so through a law specialist such as https://www.parachutelaw.co.uk/deed-of-trust.
How to make changes to title deeds
There may be occasions when it is necessary to make changes to the title deeds. This includes changing names after a divorce or marriage or when buying out a joint owner. Information on how to make these changes can be found on the gov.uk website. A small fee is required when making the change, and you also may need proof of identity and have the application signed by a solicitor.
To summarise, title deeds are legal documents that establish the ownership and provide a detailed history of previous property ownership. Understanding when title deeds are necessary, how to obtain a copy and how to make changes is crucial for anyone involved in property transactions or property ownership.