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 20/04/2026:
- Further to the Hot Issue update sent on Monday 23rd February 2026, Local Land Charges are still processing and returning partial search results. They have assured us that they are continuing to work towards restoring full search functionality. They have access to some of the necessary data, however, some critical elements are still missing, which are essential for providing complete searches. Local Land Charges have advised that they are now entering a key stage, which should move them closer to restoring full service.
Expected Delay:
- Their turnaround has been increased to 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