If you own a home - or are in the process of buying one - you might need to access the title deeds. These documents confirm who owns the property and set out key details like boundaries, restrictions, and legal conditions that could affect what you can do with it.
Most properties in the UK are digitally registered with HM Land Registry, so getting a copy is often quick and easy. In this guide, we’ll walk you through where to find your property deeds, who holds them, and how to request a copy - whether you’re a homeowner or a buyer.
What are title deeds?
Title deeds are official legal documents that prove ownership of a property and outline key details about the land and its history. They provide a comprehensive record of who owns the property, any rights or restrictions attached to it, and whether there are any outstanding mortgages or financial claims. They typically include:
The name of the registered owner(s).
A history of previous owners.
Any restrictive covenants or obligations attached to the property.
Boundaries and land rights.
Mortgage or financial charges against the property.
💡 Key takeaway: Title deeds provide a detailed legal history of a property and confirm who owns it. If you’re buying, selling, or dealing with property disputes, checking the title deeds is essential to avoid any legal complications.
When do you need your title deeds?
Your title deeds are important legal documents that confirm who owns a property and outline any restrictions or conditions attached to it. You may need to access them in several situations, including:
🏡 Selling your property: Buyers and solicitors will want to review the deeds to confirm legal ownership, property boundaries, and any restrictions before completing a purchase.
🏦 Applying for a mortgage: Some lenders may request the title deeds to verify property details and ensure there are no legal issues before approving a loan.
📍 Resolving boundary disputes: If there’s a disagreement with a neighbour over land boundaries, your title deeds can provide clarification on property lines.
📝 Proving ownership: If there is ever a dispute over who owns the property, title deeds serve as official proof of ownership.
🔨 Making changes to your property: If you're planning major renovations, an extension, or subdividing land, your deeds may be needed to check for restrictions or legal obligations.
How to get title deeds for a house
If you need to access your title deeds, follow these steps:
Check with HM Land Registry: In England and Wales, most properties are registered with HM Land Registry. You can request an official copy of the title register and title plan online for a small fee.
Contact your mortgage lender: If you have a mortgage, your lender may hold the original deeds. You can request a copy from them, but they may charge a fee.
Solicitor or conveyancer: If you used a property solicitor when purchasing your home, they may have retained copies of your deeds.
Check personal records: If your property is unregistered or was bought outright, the original deeds may be with previous paperwork or stored safely at home.
How to get a title deed for an inherited property
If you’ve inherited a property and need to obtain the title deeds, there are a few simple ways to find them:
Check HM Land Registry: If the property is registered, you can request a copy of the title register and related documents online.
Look for a will or probate records: If the property was passed down through a will, probate documents may include ownership details.
Consult a solicitor: You may need legal help to transfer the property into your name and ensure everything is handled correctly.
Contact the deceased’s bank or solicitor: If the original deeds are missing, they may have been stored with the deceased’s legal or financial advisors.
💡 Tip: If the property isn’t registered, you may need to prove ownership using historical documents or apply for first registration with HM Land Registry. A solicitor can help guide you through the process.
How to request a copy of your house deed
If you need a copy of your title deeds, you can request them through HM Land Registry or check with your lender or solicitor if they have retained them. Here’s how to do it:
1. Check HM Land Registry Online
Visit the HM Land Registry website and use the property search function to find and download the title register and title plan. A small fee typically applies (usually £7 per document for digital copies).
2. Request an official copy (Form OC1)
If you need an official (certified) copy of your deeds, you may need to complete Form OC1 and submit it to HM Land Registry. This is often required for legal transactions or disputes. Processing times can vary, but you’ll typically receive the documents within a few weeks.
3. Check with your lender or solicitor
If you have a mortgage, your lender may hold the original title deeds - contact them to request a copy. Alternatively, if you used a title deed solicitor or conveyancer when buying the property, they may have retained electronic or paper copies of the deeds.
What happens if you lose your title deeds?
If you lose your title deeds, don’t panic. Most properties in the UK are now registered with HM Land Registry, meaning the official record of ownership is held digitally. If your property is not registered and the deeds are lost, you can:
Apply for first registration: If the property has never been registered, you may need to apply for first registration using alternative proof of ownership.
Provide alternative evidence: If the deeds were lost, a statutory declaration or historical records may be required to confirm ownership.
Seek legal advice: A solicitor can help guide you through the process of recovering lost deeds or proving ownership.
FAQ
Are title deeds the same as a title register?
No, the title register is an official summary of property ownership held by HM Land Registry, while title deeds include historical and contractual information.
How long does it take to get a copy of my title deeds?
If using HM Land Registry, you can usually download copies immediately. If requesting from a lender or solicitor, it may take several weeks.
Do I need the original title deeds to sell my house?
No, if your property is registered with HM Land Registry, a copy of the title register is usually sufficient for selling your home.
Can I get a copy of someone else’s title deeds?
Yes, in the UK, land registry records are public, and anyone can obtain a copy of a property’s title register for a fee.
Final thoughts
Title deeds are key legal documents that confirm who owns a property and highlight any restrictions or rights attached to it. If you need a copy, the fastest option is to check with HM Land Registry, where most properties are digitally recorded.
If your deeds are lost, missing, or linked to an inherited property, getting legal advice can help you navigate the process smoothly and ensure you have the right documents when you need them.
Disclaimer: This article only provides general information and does not constitute professional advice. For any specific questions, consult a qualified professional.
