This article gives information on local authority hot issues that affect services such as delivery of searches
Products Affected:
- Official Local Authority Search
- Regulated Local Authority Search
Reason:
- We have been notified by Local Land Charges that as of Friday 9th October 2020, their systems have gone down as a result of an ongoing technical issue. In light of this, they currently cannot process or return searches. This is being investigated by their IT team and they hope to have the issue resolved within 5 to 7 working days.
Update 01/07/2026:
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Further to the Hot Issue update issued on Monday 8th June 2026, Local Land Charges continue to process and return partial search results. Progress remains positive, with the team now approaching full service restoration and entering the final stages of recovery. Work is currently focused on implementing the remaining planned changes, including the transition from partial to fully search results. This marks a significant step toward resuming normal service levels.
At present, there is no confirmed timeframe for full restoration, however, updates will be provided as soon as further information becomes available.
Expected Delay:
- The current turnaround time remains at 25 working days.
Options:
- What we can offer is to provide a search delayed indemnity policy. If you would like to proceed with this option, then please send us the limit of indemnity so we can provide you with an accurate quote. Otherwise, we will keep chasing the Local Authority and have the completed search back with you as soon as possible.
- Follow this article to be alerted of updates as we receive them
Council Updates
Delays are a result of an issue at the Local Authority level and are their responsibility. For the newest updates check their website here: https://hackney.gov.uk/local-land-charges-search