Conveyancing: changes to local authority search forms
In summer 2013, the Law Society consulted on proposed changes to the CON 29 and CON 29O forms. These forms are used by conveyancing solicitors to request information about matters affecting a property, such as pending planning or building applications, nearby transport schemes and rights of way.
The consultation feedback brought some important issues to light. These issues resulted in changes to the proposed questions, which have been reflected in the Law Society's new versions of forms CON 29 and CON 29O.
Law Society deputy vice president and conveyancing and land law committee chair Jonathan Smithers said:
'We are grateful to all those who responded to our consultation. The responses we received have led to some important changes that will bring the content of the search forms up to date so that prospective buyers and lenders have the information they need at their fingertips.
'Some new enquiries have been added on Community Infrastructure Levy and Assets of Community Value, and I urge people to look at those enquiries carefully before the forms are formally introduced.
'As well as our members, the Local Land Charges Institute, Local Government Association and Land Data provided valuable input on the changes. We are now working with stakeholders to implement the new forms, which is a major task as there are almost 400 local authorities in England and Wales who will need to implement the new forms.'
The Law Society is aiming to launch the new forms on 1 October 2014. Specimen versions are available from today so that local authorities and personal search companies - those most affected by the changes - can prepare for the introduction of the new forms..
Guidance notes will be available when the form is launched.
