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 08/06/2026:
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Further to the Hot Issue update issued on Monday 20th April 2026, Local Land Charges are continuing to process and return partial search results. They are getting close to fully restoring the service and are now entering the final stages.
They are currently working with their team to carry out testing for full searches. However, a cautious approach is being taken to ensure all elements are fully in place before confirming full restoration.
At this stage, no confirmed timeframe is available, but they have advised that a further update is expected within the next couple of weeks.
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