Guidance

Making an application without legal representation

Information to consider before making an application to HM Land Registry without legal representation.

Applies to England and Wales

Most applications are submitted to HM Land Registry by professional conveyancers who legally represent, and act on behalf of, the people involved (the 鈥榩arties鈥�).

Anyone can carry out their own conveyancing without legal representation, but there are a few important issues to be aware of before deciding to do it yourself.

Benefits of using a conveyancer

  1. Conveyancing is a legal process and can be complex. Searches and other formal enquiries often need to be carried out. If these are not completed properly, or not done at all, significant problems can arise after a transaction has taken place.

  2. Land registration applications may appear simple, but the law in this area can be complex and the consequences of getting it wrong can be costly.聽If you use a conveyancer, you will be covered by their professional insurance in the event that things go wrong.

  3. If the transaction involves a mortgage, most lenders will insist that a conveyancer is used for the conveyancing process.

  4. You will generally need to provide identity evidence. In many cases, some or all of the parties involved will need to have their identities verified before making an application to register the transaction.

  5. Depending on the type of transaction, numerous legal and financial aspects may need to be covered in the preparation of documents. This may include completing forms not usually required by HM Land Registry.

Further advice

HM Land Registry can provide only factual information and procedural guidance on how the land registration system works and how to make applications. Our service standards outline the advice we can and cannot give.

Remember

Consider whether Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) applies to your transaction. If acting on behalf of someone else, you may need a power of attorney.

If you are unsure about any aspect of what you need to do to, you should seek advice from a professional conveyancer.

Updates to this page

Published 2 April 2025

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