If you own a house, you already have a deed somewhere – it’s the legal paper that proves the property belongs to you. Think of it as the title badge for your home. Without a proper deed, banks won’t lend you money, and you could face headaches if you decide to sell.
In the UK there are a few common deed formats. The most basic is the title deed, which lists the current owner and any restrictions on the land. A transfer deed (sometimes called a conveyance) is used when you buy or sell – it moves ownership from one name to another. For new builds, you’ll get a deed of assignment, which transfers the developer’s rights to you.
Another piece you might hear about is the mortgage deed. This isn’t about ownership, but it registers the lender’s interest. If you ever refinance, that deed will be updated, so the bank’s security stays clear.
First, make sure your deed is safely stored. Most people keep a physical copy in a fire‑proof box, but the Land Registry also holds a digital record. You can request an official copy online – it usually costs a small fee.
When you’re buying a home, your solicitor will arrange a search at the Land Registry. This confirms that the seller actually owns the property and that there are no hidden liens or easements. If anything looks off, you’ll get a chance to fix it before the deal completes.
After the purchase, the solicitor will submit a transfer deed to the Land Registry. This updates the official record and gives you a fresh title deed. Keep an eye on the paperwork; a missed step can delay your mortgage or even block the sale.
If you need to change details on an existing deed – for example, adding a spouse after marriage – you’ll file a deed of variation. The process is similar to a transfer, just with fewer parties involved.
For landlords, the deed matters when you let a property. Tenancy agreements don’t replace the deed, but they rely on the deed to confirm you have the right to rent out the place.
In case of inheritance, the executor will use the deed to prove the estate’s right to the house. That’s why keeping the deed up‑to‑date with the correct ownership details helps avoid probate disputes.
Got a shared‑ownership home? The deed will show the split between the shared and the owned portion. Understanding that split can save you money if you decide to “staircase” – buying more of the share later.
When you’re ready to sell, the buyer’s solicitor will run the same Land Registry search you did. A clean deed speeds up the exchange and gives the buyer confidence.
Remember, a deed isn’t a living document – it only changes when you file a new one. So treat it like a legal passport for your property and keep it safe.
Need help navigating deeds, mortgages, or shared‑ownership options? Check out our related articles on property agencies, shared ownership patterns, and mortgage borrowing limits – they’ll give you the extra insight you need to make the right move.
