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What is land registration?

Land registration is the process of recording ownership of land or property with HM Land Registry. Once registered, your title is guaranteed by the state and stored electronically - making it easier to prove ownership, protect against fraud, and manage your estate.

We can help with

Registering your property after completion
We’ll submit the application and send you the official Title Information Document confirming your ownership.
Voluntary first registration
If your land or property is currently unregistered, we can help you register it voluntarily - unlocking a range of benefits.
Reconstructing title where deeds are missing
We’ll guide you through the process of proving ownership and applying for possessory title if your original deeds have been lost or destroyed.

Benefits of first registration

Your title is guaranteed by HM Land Registry
Protection against property fraud
No risk of losing paper deeds - everything is stored digitally
Easier to sell or transfer your property in the future
Helps resolve any unknown title issues early
Supports better estate planning and record keeping
25% discount on Land Registry fees for voluntary registration

What if the deeds are missing?

If your deeds are lost, we’ll help you:

Provide a Statement of Truth
Explaining how and when the deeds were lost, with supporting evidence.
Reconstruct the title
Using any available copies, solicitor records, or mortgage documents. We’ll also gather evidence of your possession (e.g. utility bills, plans, or surveys).
Prove your identity
As part of the application process.

In most cases, the Land Registry will grant a possessory title, which can be upgraded to absolute title after 12 years. If you plan to sell before then, we can arrange an indemnity policy to protect the buyer.

Why Choose Porter Dodson?

Specialist advice on all aspects of land registration

Support with complex cases, including missing deeds

Joined-up service with our private client and property teams

Offices across Somerset, Devon and Dorset, with remote support available nationwide

Louise and Tiffany were absolutely great. First time purchasing a house and everything went incredibly smoothly, from instruction to completion everything was done in 3 months. Great response times, very kind and professional. 100% would recommend for home purchase.

Residential Property Client

Nicola & Roisin were fantastic. My house purchase was far from standard, and the team at Porter Dodson in Exeter remained professional and kept me updated throughout. They went above and beyond when other parties didn’t and I’d recommend anyone to use them. They’re my first choice! Thanks both.

Harry

Reena Raval made selling our house stress free and straightforward, despite the circumstances. From start to finish, Porter Dodson were professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly efficient. Reena's and Beckie's communication was excellent – we were kept informed at every stage, and any questions we had were answered quickly and clearly. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to anyone buying or selling a property. Thank you for your exceptional service.

Claire