When you’re buying a property, it’s important to do your due diligence to avoid any nasty surprises. One aspect of this is checking the local land charges register to ensure there are no charges or restrictions on the property that could affect your ownership. This is where the LLC1 and CON29 forms come into play, and they have the approval of the Council of Mortgage Lenders.
What is the LLC1 form?
The LLC1 form is a search of the local land charges register that reveals any restrictions or prohibitions affecting the property. This can include things like tree preservation orders, conservation areas, or listed buildings. It’s important to note that this search only covers the property itself, not the surrounding area.
What is the CON29 form?
The CON29 form is a more comprehensive search that covers a wider range of issues that could affect the property and its surroundings. This can include things like planning permissions, highways, contaminated land, and more. It’s important to note that some of these issues may not be obvious from a visual inspection of the property, so the CON29 search is an important part of the due diligence process.
Why do lenders require these searches?
Lenders require these searches to ensure that the property is free from any restrictions or issues that could affect its value or your ability to repay the mortgage. If there are any issues revealed by the search, the lender may require them to be resolved before they will agree to lend you the money to buy the property.
How do I get these searches?
LLC1 and CON29 searches can be obtained from the local council. It’s important to note that there is a fee for these searches, and the cost can vary depending on the local authority. Your solicitor or conveyancer will usually handle the process of obtaining these searches for you.
How long do these searches take?
The turnaround time for these searches can vary depending on the local authority. Some councils may be able to provide the searches within a few days, while others may take several weeks. It’s important to factor this into your timeline when buying a property, as delays in obtaining these searches can hold up the process.
What happens if issues are revealed by the search?
If issues are revealed by the search, it’s important to discuss them with your solicitor or conveyancer. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action, which may include negotiations with the seller, resolving the issues before completion, or even pulling out of the purchase altogether if the issues are too severe.
Conclusion
The LLC1 and CON29 searches are an important part of the due diligence process when buying a property. They provide valuable information about any restrictions or issues that could affect the property and your ability to own it. By obtaining these searches, you can ensure that you’re fully aware of any potential issues before you make an offer on the property, allowing you to make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the purchase or not.