HM Land Registry is the government department responsible for registering the ownership of land and property in England and Wales. It maintains a comprehensive register that records who owns each registered property, the boundaries, and any charges, restrictions or covenants affecting it.
When you buy a property, your conveyancer registers you as the new owner with the Land Registry after completion. If you have a mortgage, the lender's charge is also recorded on the register. This public record provides legal certainty about property ownership and protects both owners and lenders.
The Land Registry operates separately from the Scottish land registration system (Registers of Scotland) and the Northern Ireland system (Land and Property Services). Most properties in England and Wales are now registered, though some older properties may still be unregistered and would need to be registered upon sale or transfer.
After you complete on your new home, your conveyancer submits an application to the Land Registry to register you as the new owner. A few weeks later, the register is updated to show your name as the proprietor, along with your lender's charge.
Key Points
- Government body maintaining the official register of property ownership in England and Wales
- Records property owners, boundaries, charges and restrictions
- Your conveyancer registers your ownership after you complete a purchase
- Mortgage lender charges are recorded on the register
- Provides legal certainty and protection for property owners and lenders