Five Questions to Ask Before You Buy in the UK
Back
Buying Land Starts With Asking the Right Questions
Purchasing land is an important decision. Before committing to a plot, it is worth taking the time to understand exactly what you are buying, what comes with it, and what responsibilities you will have as the landowner.
Here are five key questions to ask before buying land in the UK.
1. What Exactly Am I Buying?
Start with the fundamentals.
Check the location, size, boundaries, tenure and title details of the land. For registered land in England and Wales, HM Land Registry provides a title register and title plan containing important information about ownership, boundaries and rights affecting the land.
Make sure the information provided by the seller matches the legal documentation.
2. Does the Land Have Planning Permission?
Planning status is one of the most important things to understand before purchasing land.
Ask whether the land currently has planning permission, whether there are any existing applications, and what restrictions may apply.
Buying land does not automatically give you planning permission. Any future planning application will depend on the relevant planning authority and the circumstances of the site.
3. How Can I Access the Land?
Access should always be considered before purchasing.
Ask:
How is the land accessed?
Is the access private or public?
Are there rights of way?
Are there any restrictions on access?
Does the title documentation contain relevant easements?
HM Land Registry records can contain information about rights of way and other rights affecting land.
4. Are There Any Restrictions or Covenants?
Land can be subject to restrictive covenants, easements or other legal restrictions that affect how it can be used.
These may be recorded within the title register or referenced in additional documents. Understanding these restrictions before purchasing can help you make a more informed decision.
This is also where professional legal advice can be particularly valuable.
5. Have I Reviewed the Legal Documents?
Before completing a purchase, make sure you have had the opportunity to review the relevant documentation.
This may include the title register, title plan, sales agreement and other documents relating to the land.
HM Land Registry notes that land registration can be complex and recommends considering legal representation when dealing with land and property.
Take Your Time Before You Buy
A straightforward purchase starts with clear information.
Understanding the land, its legal position, access, planning status and relevant restrictions can give you greater clarity before you proceed.
At Asquith, we believe buying UK land should be clear, straightforward and well informed.