land registry query

[sneezecakesmum]

I would like to research the previous owner of a property dating back around 25 years ago.

I have checked interesting stuff on this site (I think ) previously but am having difficulty getting this info.

How do I search for this at land registry, or is it a different site I need?

I think you have to do Land Registry searches in writing.

Nope, you can do land registry searches online and download the results. There is a facility to do it on the HM Land Registry website - costs a few pounds.

But I don't think it will show you who owned the property 25 years ago. The register will only show who owns it now (assuming it is registered). You would need the historic deeds I think - and you don't have a right to see those unless you own the property. Also I think the land registry often destroy the old deeds once a property is registered as they are meant to be going paperless - at least, I heard that about 5 years ago. They would only retain paper deeds if they contain details of non-registrable interests (not just for historic interest's sake).

(I could be wrong by the way - I am a solicitor, but my knowledge of land law is pretty hazy - I do get land registry searches from time to time though and they don't show historic ownership).

I don't know how you would find out who owned it 25 years ago - perhaps someone wiser will come along and give you an answer!

How far back can you search Electoral Registers? That would at least show who occupied the property and they may (or may not) have been the owners.

The Land Registry scan copies of some of the historic deeds, but only those referred to on the register itself as being filed, I think (my recollection is pretty hazy too!). You can apply for copies of those but I don't know how helpful they would be. I think you'd need to get a copy of the register and take it from there.

You need a very good reason if they'll agree to give you copies of old deeds they have.

Not if they are referred to in the register as being filed, surely, as the register needs to be read in conjunction with these in order to make sense. For example, the deed might show plans with rights of way etc. But, I agree, with other deeds, you would need to show you had a valid interest.

Agreed.

Thank you all so much. I phoned them this am and they agreed to research for me if I could get the correct postcode, I suppose it depends if the house was registered with land registry at all? Off out now so do it later.

V good idea about electoral register, will also try that.

thanks