Improving the property buying process in Castle Point
Buying a property in Castle Point is now quicker and easier, thanks to a new digital service. Castle Point Borough Council has partnered with HM Land Registry to transfer its Local Land Charges (LLC) service to the national digital register.
This transformation means property buyers can instantly access LLC information online, helping them make informed decisions earlier in the conveyancing process. Most Local Land Charges are restrictions or conditions affecting land or property such as planning permissions or listed building status. A search of the national register will reveal whether a property is subject to any such charges.
Castle Point Borough Council’s move supports the Government’s wider ambition to make property transactions faster, simpler and more cost-effective. The LLC register is available to everyone via the “Search for local land charges” service. Business users can also access it through their portal account or Business Gateway.
Users can download a personal search free of charge or purchase an official search for £15, which includes unlimited repeat searches for six months. All results are presented in a standard, easy-to-read format and include geospatial mapping.
Cllr Dave Blackwell, Leader of Castle Point Borough Council said: “We’re proud to be among the first councils to adopt HM Land Registry’s national digital register offering residents a more transparent and user-friendly experience when buying property.”
Once all local authorities in England and Wales have joined the national register, it will hold over 25 million charges. This will make it easier for data users to search, combine and interpret information.