Land Registry warned of ‘flaws’ with Qualified Electronic Signatures
Summary
An industry coalition has criticised the Land Registry’s implementation of Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES), arguing that current guidance contains fundamental flaws and is slowing adoption in conveyancing. The letter says the inability to mix signature types is limiting use, while HM Land Registry says it expects uptake to rise and is open to exploring temporary options to accelerate adoption.
Why it matters
Surveyors involved in transactions should be aware that digital execution issues may continue to affect conveyancing timelines and completion processes. The position also has implications for how property transfers are documented and coordinated with solicitors, lenders and other parties.
Key points
- Industry experts say current QES guidance is holding back conveyancing.
- Only five registrable dispositions were made with QES in Q1 2026.
- The system does not allow mixed signature types in a single transaction.
- HM Land Registry says adoption is expected to increase and barriers remain.
- The Land Registry is open to exploring temporary options to speed uptake.
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