A further change in the process comes after the window for replying to requests for information was extended in January 2021 to 40 days in which to reply before an application is cancelled.
The longer period has resulted in a reduction in requests for extensions and cancellations, allowing the focus to be on processing new applications.
The Land Registry raises a requisition when information is missing, incomplete, or wrongly drawn and the further improvements will see applications progressed quicker. Nearly 20 per cent of applications require requisitions and can be as high as 50 per cent in some cases.
Providing written evidence to Land Registry
Anyone applying for an extension will need to provide written evidence. This includes a summary of dates on which they have actively pursued any outstanding matters and documentation which shows if a delay is with a third party.
The Land Registry no longer accepts requests by telephone, with portal users encouraged to use the Reply to Requisition rather than Application Enquiry. An email address should also be supplied when lodging a request to receive information request reminders. In most cases reminders are usually sent after 40 days.
