Unregistered Land

Unregistered land remains a significant feature of commercial property and agricultural ownership in England and Wales. Our Commercial Property team has extensive experience advising landowners and developers on all aspects of unregistered land, from routine transactions to complex historic title issues.

We provide practical, commercially focused advice to help you manage risk, protect your interests and achieve certainty of title.

Our expertise

We advise on all matters relating to unregistered land, including:

Sales and purchases of unregistered commercial property, including title investigation and reporting
First registration at HM Land Registry, whether triggered by a transaction or pursued voluntarily
Deduction and investigation of title, including analysis of deeds, conveyances, abstracts and epitomes
Adverse possession and possessory title issues
Rights affecting unregistered land, such as easements, rights of way, restrictive covenants and mineral rights
Mortgages and secured lending acting for borrowers and lenders
Development projects involving unregistered land, including title structuring and risk management
Boundary issues and historic title discrepancies

A careful and thorough approach

Unregistered land often involves historic documents, missing deeds and complex chains of ownership. Our team takes a meticulous approach to title investigation, identifying potential risks at an early stage and advising on appropriate solutions, including title insurance where suitable.

We work closely with clients to explain issues clearly, avoiding unnecessary technical language, and ensuring you understand both the legal position and the commercial implications.

First registration made straightforward

Where first registration is required, we manage the process efficiently and proactively. This includes:

Preparing and submitting first registration applications
•   Dealing with Land Registry requisitions
•   Advising on title class and any limitations or qualifications
•   Resolving defects to secure the best possible registered title

Working with your wider project team

We regularly collaborate with surveyors, managing agents, lenders and other professional advisers to ensure a coordinated approach, particularly on complex or time-critical transactions.

Get in touch

If you are dealing with unregistered land or would like advice on first registration or historic title issues, our Commercial Property team would be pleased to help. We offer clear, practical advice tailored to your objectives and the realities of your transaction.