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The information we provide is based on the standard questions set out in the current national LLC1 and CON 29 forms. There are some questions we cannot answer and others, for example about roads, where we need to consult the agency responsible for that area and include their replies within our search.
We are always looking to improve our service. We also think the service we offer gives that little bit extra.......
Helpful and friendly staff
Our land charge service is run by professional staff who know the area. Each relevant question is formally answered. Searches are certified and returned promptly. Any queries arising can be quickly dealt with by phone or email.
We do not sub-contract work to private search companies. Queries as to completeness or accuracy arising from sub-contracted searches will need to be directed to the relevant supplier
National Land and Information Service (NLIS)
We are members of NLIS. We can receive searches electronically - and later on this year will be able to send searches back electronically. By-passing the postal service means turnaround is speeded up and can be integrated into back-office functions
Quicker turnaround
While the current national turnaround target for standard land charges is 10 days we aim to return all land charges in less than 10 days. Our normal turnaround is 4-5 days but will vary depending upon caseload
Quicker search
If you need an individual search carried out by return we should be able to help - subject to staffing and caseload
"Invalid" applications
Sometimes it is not possible to return a search because the fee is incorrect, plans are missing or the site plan is unclear. We normally like to sort the problem out by phone and get on with processing the search .
Planning history detail
While some councils take planning history back to 1974 (Local Government Reorganisation) or 1977 (current national requirement for conditional consents) for a full search we take history back to 1948-the start of the national post-war planning system.
This is particularly important for those thinking about extending their properties such as in the Green Belt where the "allowance" for extensions has already been "used up" and planning permission is required for any further extensions.
This does mean that sometimes complex sites may take longer to process and return, but with a better end result!
Other information
Our Revenues Section can tell you the Council Tax banding of the property you are interested in. As this information is not available online please contact 01883 732934/2931 or Council tax.
You may be interested to looking up the various websites which have information about buying a a house in our area such as those supplied by local estate agents.
