What is a Local Authority Search?

What is a Local Authority Search? What’s included in a local authority search?

There are two parts to a local authority search – a LLC1 and a CON29.

The LLC1 – Local Land Charge Register search – covers any charges or restrictions relating to land or property. These can include whether the property is:

• a listed building
• located in a conservation area
• subject to a tree preservation order
• in need of an improvement or renovation grant
• or situated in a smoke control zone

The form also covers planning agreements and conditional planning permissions and building controls issues.

The second part of the search, the CON29, supplies information relating to public highways, proposals for new roads, rail schemes that could affect the property, as well as outstanding statutory notices, breaches of planning or building regulations or the existence of a compulsory purchase order. Environmental factors, such as whether the house stands on contaminated land or in a Radon gas affected area are also covered although often with very limited information.

What isn’t included in a local authority search?

There are a number of additional reports that are not covered by the standard local authority search and are therefore subject to extra fees. The need for such searches will be determined by your conveyancing solicitor or mortgage lender on a case-by-case basis (although some are considered essential by certain lenders).

If you are buying a property of need assistance from one of Alexander JLO’s expert property lawyers why not give us a call on 020 7537 7000 or email quote@london-law.co.uk and see what we can do for you?

This blog was prepared by one of Alexander JLO’s property partners, Matt Johnson on the 28th November 2022 and is correct at the time of going to press. Matt is an expert in the field of conveyancing, with a specialism in new build and shared ownership work.

Matt’s profile on the independent Review Solicitor website can be viewed here.