Introduction

The time taken for applications to the Land Registry to be processed can have a significant impact on clients. Delays can affect remortgages, sales, purchases, refinancing, development projects and the registration of legal interests. Whilst many applications are processed within standard timescales, others can remain outstanding for several months, even up to a year.

Where a delay is causing genuine hardship or preventing a transaction from progressing, solicitors may be able to request that an application is expedited. Understanding when an expedition request is appropriate, and how to present it effectively, can help minimise delays for clients. 

What is an Expedited Application?

An expedited application is a request for the Land Registry to prioritise an application that has already been submitted. Expediting does not guarantee immediate registration, nor does it change the legal requirements for the application. Instead, it moves the application into a priority queue where it can be considered more quickly.

It is important to note that the application must be substantively correct. If the Land Registry raises a requisition, the application cannot be completed until those requisitions have been fully answered.

When can an application be expedited?

The Land Registry will generally consider expediting an application where there is evidence that a delay is preventing an imminent transaction or causing significant detriment.

Examples include:

• A pending sale where registration is required before completion.
• A remortgage that cannot proceed until ownership has been updated.
• The registration of a transfer following the death of a proprietor.
• Development finance or refinancing that depends upon registration.
• Court orders or other legal proceedings where registration is required.

Simply wishing for a faster outcome is unlikely to be sufficient. Solicitors should be prepared to demonstrate a genuine urgency supported by appropriate evidence.

Supporting an expedition request

Providing clear evidence significantly improves the likelihood of an expedition request being accepted. Depending on the circumstances, this may include:

• A copy of a contract showing an agreed completion date. 
• Memorandum of Sale Document evidencing another linked transaction.
• A mortgage offer with expiry dates.
• Correspondence from another conveyancer confirming a linked transaction.
• Evidence that funding is dependent upon registration.
• A clear explanation of the prejudice to the client if registration is delayed.

The request should be concise, factual and explain why the application requires urgent consideration.

Managing client expectations

Many clients assume registration takes only a few weeks. Setting realistic expectations at the outset of a transaction helps reduce frustration if processing times are extended.

Where an application is suitable for expedition, explaining the process, the evidence required and the likely timescales allows clients to understand both the opportunities and limitations of the process.

Ultimately, while not every Land Registry application will qualify for expedition, understanding the process and recognising when an urgent request is appropriate can make a significant difference for clients. By submitting accurate applications, responding promptly to requisitions and providing clear evidence where urgency exists, law firms can help minimise delays and keep transactions progressing as smoothly as possible. 

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