HMLR consults on fees and future access to data
Summary
HM Land Registry has opened two consultations covering a simplified fee structure for certain registrations and wider access to its data. The proposals also explore greater public-sector and public-interest access to land ownership datasets, while retaining privacy safeguards for ordinary homeowners.
Why it matters
Changes to Land Registry fees could affect the cost and processing of transfers and mortgage registrations, which are routine parts of residential conveyancing. Improved access to ownership data may also support due diligence, land research and transparency for surveyors working on site investigations and valuation-related instructions.
Key points
- Consultation on simplifying Scale Two fees for transfers where no or below-market consideration is paid and for mortgage registrations.
- HMLR says current value-based fee calculations can be difficult to determine and may lead to requisitions and delays.
- A second consultation considers broader access to HMLR data, including datasets on significant land holdings and commercially owned land.
- Public-sector bodies and some public-interest researchers could gain free access to certain datasets and title information.
- The proposals do not extend public access to information about most ordinary homeowners and do not change Official Copy fees.
Organisations:
HM Land Registry, Today's Conveyancer
Locations:
England, Wales
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