Loss of Title Deeds
Title deeds are an essential legal document. Without them, you cannot sell your property. Lost house deeds can therefore prove very stressful. Real Legal have dealt with many cases of lost house deeds and can help you through the legal process to recover them.
What to Do If You Lose Your House Deeds
If you have lost your house deeds, the first step is to contact a conveyancing solicitors, like Real Legal. We will reach out to lenders and the Land Registry to find out if they have a copy of the deeds. If they do, then good news! You can receive a copy from them.
If neither institution have a copy of the lost house deeds, we will apply for a first registration of the title. To do this, you must provide an account of how the deeds were lost or destroyed. Normally, the Land Registry will only approve applications that were lost by a professional or destroyed in an accident. You must also reconstruct the title to show how they ended up in your possession. Finally, you must also provide proof of identity.
This is a lengthy legal process, which is why it is best to hire a conveyancing solicitors. At Real Legal we have a thorough understanding of the legal system and know where to look for the relevant records. We will oversee your application to success.
The Process for Registering House Deeds
If you have lost your house deeds, then you will have to register the deeds again. This can be a complicated legal process. At Real Legal, we can assist with the application. We will provide advice and expertise to help you regain ownership of your property.
There are 3 essential steps to register house deeds:
1. Provide an account of how the deeds were lost or destroyed
To register deeds, you must first provide an account of the original title was lost or destroyed. The account should provide a detailed timeline, using evidence where possible.This should include who held them last and when, plus why they had them.
Generally, the Land Registry will only consider applications where the deeds were lost or destroyed through no fault of the owner. For example, if it was lost by a lender or destroyed in a flood.
2. Reconstruct how the deed has devolved to you
You must also provide a reconstruction of how the deed ended up in your hands. This might be through purchase or inheritance. Use legal documentation wherever possible. For example, sale contracts from your conveyancer.
This is why it is best to hire a conveyancing solicitor. We can help you track down legal documentation and get in touch with the right authorities. Whilst this process may seem overwhelming, we have experience handling such cases and can help you through it.
3.Proof of identity
You must also provide proof of identity. In most cases, this will be a passport or driving licence.
If this fails, we will help you apply for a possessory title. A possessory title is when an individual has had sole, uninterrupted access to a property for a period of time. This can be proven by utility bills and insurance. However, this can be challenged by someone who believes they have a better claim. This is a last resort for lost house deeds, but still provides you with some security.
Can You Sell Your House If You Have Lost the Deeds?
Yes, you can still sell your property even if you have lost the deeds. However, you will have to prove that you own the property in another way. That means registering the deeds or applying for a possessory title, as described above.
Why Choose Us
Real Legal have experience and expertise in dealing with lost house deeds cases. Our understanding of the application process puts you in the best position to achieve success. We can help you regain control and security of your property.
When you choose Real Legal, a dedicated conveyancer will oversee your case. We will communicate with you regularly, where necessary, so you know exactly what we need from you. This ensures a seamless, stress-free process.
We understand that lost house deeds can prove incredibly stressful. That is why we pride ourselves on our excellent customer service. We’ll keep in touch throughout the process with updates. Plus, you can always email or call us if you have any questions. Or pop in for a chat if you’re local. Simply call or email to arrange an appointment.
Registered with the CQS
Real Legal are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority to ensure proper conduct. We’re also registered members of the Conveyancing Quality Scheme. This scheme renews every year, ensuring we’re up to date with training and all the latest industry changes.