Why You Should Register Unregistered Property or Land

23rd September 2025 | Shen Hussein | Residential Property, Unregistered Land, Property

If your property or land is still unregistered with HM Land Registry, now is an ideal time to consider voluntary registration. Taking this step can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress in the future.

Although the Land Registry has existed for many years, a surprising number of properties across England and Wales remain unregistered, especially where ownership has not changed hands for generations. If your home or land is unregistered, proving ownership depends entirely on old title deeds, which can create risks and complications.

What Does “Unregistered” Mean?

When a property is registered, HM Land Registry holds an official, digital record of who owns it, together with details of mortgages, rights of way, and covenants affecting the land. This register is secure, up-to-date, and easily accessible.

In contrast, an unregistered property has no such official record. Ownership is established only through original paper deeds and documents, sometimes going back decades. These papers must show an unbroken chain of ownership to prove a valid title.

Why Registration Matters

Registering your property offers several important advantages:

1. Protection against fraud
   Sadly, property fraud is on the rise. Fraudsters may attempt to pose as the owner of unregistered land and sell or mortgage it without your knowledge. Registration makes it much harder, as HM Land Registry has robust checks and safeguards in place.

2. Clear proof of ownership
   If you want to sell, remortgage, or transfer ownership in the future, having your title registered makes the process far simpler and more secure.

3. Avoiding lost or damaged deeds
   If the original title deeds are lost, damaged, or incomplete, proving ownership of unregistered land can beome costly and time-consuming. Registering your property now removes this risk.

4. Certainty about boundaries and rights
   A Land Registry title plan shows the general boundaries of your property and records key rights, restrictions, and covenants. This clarity reduces the risk of disputes with neighbours and helps future buyers understand exactly what they are purchasing.

5. Speed and efficiency in transactions
   Registered land is easier to sell or mortgage. Buyers, lenders, and solicitors can rely on Land Registry records, so transactions proceed more smoothly and with fewer delays.

 

Voluntary Registration

Registration of unregistered property is compulsory when it is sold, mortgaged, or gifted. However, you do not have to wait until then. You can choose to register your property voluntarily at any time, and benefit from a more streamlined process.

How We Can Help

Our Residential Property team can guide you through the registration process from start to finish. We will review your deeds, prepare the necessary application, and liaise with HM Land Registry on your behalf. Once registration is complete, you will receive an official copy of your registered title – clear, secure proof that you are the legal owner.

Registering now gives you peace of mind and makes any future property transactions far simpler.