Local Searches

Local search

combination of LLC1 + CON29 (+ CON29O if requested)

Purpose of local search

obtain full picture of property from local authority

When local search carried out

in every transaction (residential and commercial)

Who orders local search

buyer’s solicitor

Searches vs enquiries

searches = third parties, enquiries = seller

LLC1 (definition)

search of local land charges register

LLC1 function

reveals charges binding the property

LLC1 planning info

shows granted planning permissions only

LLC1 key entries

conservation area, TPO, listed building

Planning charges (LLC1)

Part 3 of register

Misc charges (LLC1)

Part 4 (e.g. smoke control order)

Listed building charge

Part 10

Article 4 direction

restricts permitted development rights

Conservation area

stricter control on property alterations

CON29 (definition)

standard enquiries of local authority

CON29 function

wider information about property and area

CON29 planning info

includes permissions, refusals and pending applications

CON29 building regs

approvals and completion certificates

CON29 enforcement

shows notices or intention to enforce

CON29 roads

confirms if roads are adopted

Adopted road

maintained at public expense

Importance of adopted road

ensures legal access

Highways search vs CON29

highways search shows exact boundaries of highway

CON29 contamination

shows if contaminated land notice served

Environmental search link

needed alongside CON29 for full risk

CON29O (definition)

optional local authority enquiries

CON29O use

raised only where relevant

Common land enquiry (CON29O)

checks village green/common land status

Risk of common land

restricts development and access

Local search skill

match results to questions on forms

Key exam point

LLC1 = charges, CON29 = wider enquiries

Key exam point

always interpret results + advise client