Why Local Authority Searches Are Key to Smarter Property Purchases

Navigating local searches can be daunting, though they are very important. Not only is it a requirement if you are purchasing with a mortgage but it could also shape your decision of whether to continue with the purchase of the property you are trying to buy.  

Our local authority search results are produced with an easy to follow key, typical answers, advisories, and warnings. The report also highlights main areas of interest such as land charges, the planning register, building regulations, roads and footpaths and then other matters.  

Land charges  

These typically include outstanding financial claims or restrictions registered against the property. Examples include conditions imposed in planning permission and listed buildings. 

Planning Register 

The planning register will show planning applications from 1990 onwards. This is particularly helpful if you are interested in the history of works undertaken, or that have been applied for previously in relation to the property you are purchasing. This could reveal works you were aware of, such as an extension or even works that were not carried out as the application was rejected. 

This aspect is particularly important if you are purchasing in a conservation area where rules will be far stricter to ensure full compliance. 

Do note that if you are interested in planning applications in the local area, you will need to purchase an additional Plan Search as the local authority search relates to one property only.  

Building Regulations 

This aspect naturally follows on from the planning applications. If an extension was revealed in the planning register and this work was undertaken, you would want to see a corresponding building regulations completion certificate listed within the building regulations register.  

This is also where gas safe certificates are revealed which would evidence when a boiler was installed as well as electrical installation certificates. 

In addition, you will find records of FENSAs in this section which relate to the installation of windows and doors. 

Roads/footpaths 

This section will answer whether the roads and footpaths adjoining the property are adopted by the council. If the roads are unadopted this could mean greater expense for you and as well as the need to arrange any necessary works between the neighbours who also use the road. 

This area of the search will also highlight any public rights of way, either over the property or next to it such as a public footpath.  

Other matters  

Other matters include items such as drainage information. The drainage section will reveal if the property is served by a SUDS (sustainable urban drainage system). A water and drainage search will reveal further information, however. 

The search will also reveal whether there are any nearby road schemes, railway schemes or traffic schemes that may impact the property you are purchasing.  

The search result will also highlight items such as if the property is built on contaminated land or if it is in a radon gas affected area. Do note however that the environmental search would reveal further information in this particular area.  

The local authority search is a useful tool when purchasing a property. Although you may need one if you are purchasing with the use of a mortgage, we would always recommend you carry one out even if you are a cash buyer due to the useful information it will provide. 

The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is not intended to create, and viewing it does not establish, a solicitor-client relationship. Readers are encouraged to seek the advice of a qualified legal professional regarding their specific circumstances. 

This blog, authored by Charlotte Cottam, is part of an ongoing training initiative aimed at encouraging our team members to deliver oral presentations on a range of legal topics.