Local Land Charges FAQs

What is a personal search?

A personal searcher or member of the public is entitled to inspect certain other public registers. Any person may make a personal search. Following changes in legislation, Personal Searches are now free of charge.

more details

What about CON 29 questions?

The CON 29 enquiry questionnaire, which forms part of the official search, contains many "warning" questions. Examples of the information that can be found only by submitting a CON 29 are given below: - • Compulsory Purchase Orders • Proposed Tree Preservation Orders • Notices under the Planning, Highways and Public Health Acts not found on any register • Road proposals or schemes (including road widening) • Proposed enforcement action or breach of condition notices If you rely on a personal search from a solicitor or personal search company, any information they do obtain is not covered by Section 10(3) of the Local Land Charges Act 1975 which relates to compensation for loss. An official local authority search provides you with the complete and comprehensive information as per the CON 29 enquiries form, carried out by the Council in accordance with the Local Land Charges Act 1975 and Local Land Charges Rules 1977. Please see Schedule of Information on the Personal Searches page.

What if I am struggling to meet tight deadlines, but desire a professional and accurate service that can be obtained only by submitting an Official Certificate of Search?

At Newham we always encourage enquirers to contact us first if they have urgent searches and we fully understand that there are times when tight deadlines need to be met. If you find yourself in this situation, please contact us via email at land.charges@newham.gov.uk.