How to check a land charge
Begin with the exact words you have seen and the record they came from. “Charge” by itself is not enough to tell you whether the issue is a mortgage, planning restriction or another property interest.
Identify the land and its registration status
Use the address, title number or plan to identify the relevant parcel. HM Land Registry’s property information service can show information for registered property. Boundaries and mixed or adjoining parcels can need further investigation.
Search property informationRead the title or deeds
For registered land, inspect the title register, especially the B and C sections, and any deeds it refers to. For unregistered land, the title deeds and name-based Land Charges searches need to be considered together.
How to read a title registerCheck local land charges and council enquiries
Find out whether HM Land Registry has taken over the local register for the area. Search the appropriate Local Land Charges Register. Ask about CON29 enquiries as well: they give additional local authority information and are not replaced by the register search.
Local land charges search serviceGet the underlying document and assess its effect
Note the authority or beneficiary, date, land affected and any reference number. Obtain the notice, permission, deed or mortgage discharge evidence if needed. The entry is often a summary; the full document and current circumstances determine what it means for the proposed purchase or development.
Quick comparison
| If the question is… | Start with… | Remember |
|---|---|---|
| Is there a conservation area or planning condition? | Local Land Charges Register | Also check council enquiries and the underlying decision. |
| Is there a registered mortgage? | Title register, usually C section | The outstanding balance is generally not shown. |
| Does an old deed restrict an unregistered plot? | Deeds and name-based Land Charges search | Relevant earlier owners may need searching. |
This guide is general information for England and Wales. Searches can have timing, mapping and document limitations. A conveyancer can interpret a specific entry, confirm the right land has been searched and advise what must be resolved before a transaction.
Source notes
This guide explains the position in England and Wales in plain language. Follow the official source for the full rules and current service arrangements.