Guidance on the execution of property documents by hand and electronically.

Two new sets of Guidance Notes are now available specifically geared to the requirements for executing property documents. 

The Land Registry began accepting some types of electronically executed deeds during the pandemic and has continued to develop the use of electronically executed property documents. They have strict requirements (irrespective of whether documents are executed by hand or electronically) and it is important that their requirements are met to avoid applications being rejected or requisitions and delays and further costs occurring.

Guidance Note: Formalities for Signing and Execution of Property Documents set out the requirements for property documents to be legally valid and accepted by the Land Registry.  It provides example wording that can be used in property contracts and deeds.

Guidance Note: Electronic Execution of Property Deeds set out the methods of electronic execution accepted by the Land Registry and includes reference to the steps which must be followed for valid electronic execution. 

Both Guidance Notes should be read in conjunction to help you to decide whether and how you can validly create an electronic document.

The Guidance Notes relating to business and commercial agreements continue to be downloadable in the Corporate and Business folders.