First Property Registration Processes and Procedures
The Registration of Title Act 1964 (Compulsory Registration of Ownership) (Cork and Dublin) Order 2010 (S.I. 516/2010) initiated the compulsory registration of title in the Land Registry, now under the management of the Property Registration Authority of Ireland (PRAI). This mandate was extended to encompass the counties and cities of Dublin and Cork starting from June 1, 2011. Today, registration of title in the Land Registry is mandatory across all counties. This shift marks a transition away from the older and more restricted system of title registration in the Registry of Deeds. Furthermore, it aligns with government initiatives promoting "e-conveyancing."
Title Registration Overview
When property title is registered in the Land Registry, it involves recording all relevant property and ownership details within designated "folios." These folios, coupled with Land Registry maps, collectively constitute the official register maintained by the Land Registry.
Key Advantages of Registered Title
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Simplified Title Verification: The process of proving property title becomes streamlined, eliminating the need for a cumbersome collection of title deeds.
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State-Guaranteed Title: A Land Registry title benefits from the State's guarantee. In the event of an error in registration that leads to a loss for any individual, the State provides indemnification against such loss. Consequently, titles submitted for Land Registry registration undergo meticulous scrutiny to ensure accuracy.
For in-depth insights into the legal aspects of property registration, feel free to explore our blog post, "The Essentials of First Property Registration: A Simplified Guide" on our Legal Maps Blog.
Here's a list of relevant articles from our blog for additional information on each topic:
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The Essentials of First Property Registration: A Simplified Guide
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Land Registry Compliant Maps and More: Simplifying Property Transactions
Feel free to explore these blogs for comprehensive information on each topic or drop us an email for any of you legal mapping needs.
When does registration become compulsory?
Title registration is now required for "conveyance on sale" (freehold land) and "grant or assignment on sale" (leasehold land).
This means that when you're selling property the purchaser gains a registered interest in the land, you must register the title. This requirement doesn't include mortgages, refinancing, or marriage-related transactions. However, financial institutions may still opt to register titles during financing or refinancing.
How do I know if I need a land registry compliant map?
You can check if your property is registered with the Land Registry by following these steps:
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Select the 'Proceed as Guest' option on the landing page.
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Search your property address using the interactive map.
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If your property is not outlined in red or green, it's unregistered, and you'll need a Land Registry Map for First Property Registration.
Why do I need a Land Registry Compliant Map?
When a property or part of a property requires a new title, the boundary and plot require lodgement and approval by the Land Registry. Properties that have not been previously registered go through a process called First Property Registration. You can read more about Understanding Land Registry Compliant Maps: What Are They?