The Government’s Land Registry (HMLR) in the UK is currently changing the way they charge fees and charges. According to HMLR, these changes will make it easier for common people to access data related to land. The organization has been in existence since 1862, but HMLR would not agree that it is currently in chaos because fees and charges have been levied in the old fashioned way. Now it is important to see exactly what changes HMLR will make in its fee structure and whether it will be beneficial to the general public.
The review focuses on three key principles
1) The current fee structure needs to be simplified and modernized
People find it very difficult to pay the current fees and the fee structure seems too complicated so HMLR is simplifying the fee structure so that it will be easier for people to use.
2) Fair and equal fees for all
A fee is charged by HMLR on the purchase or sale price of the land. But the Land Registry will see that the fee is equal for all, as well as reasonable. Now the fee will be decided on the price and size of the land.
3) Bringing new technologies and making information easily accessible to all
HMLR is well aware that information about land and property is very useful for different sectors. Therefore, attention will now be given to how people can use the available information to the maximum extent possible. This information will be made easily available and cheap.
Chief Executive and Chief Land Registrar Simon Hayes said:
Our fees and charging structure has become unnecessarily complex. We want to seek views from a wide audience to ensure that the way we charge for our services supports our customers as well as the delivery of our Strategy 2022+.
Seeking Public Input
In order to get important information, HMLR tried to get public opinion on “Future Fees and Fee Structure“. The survey ran for 4 weeks till 5th April 2024. HMLR asked people questions on the above three topics and tried to know what people think. Many people have registered their participation in this survey.
What This Means for You
If you have participated in HMLR’s survey for land registration, data access or other services, this is likely to have a direct impact on you. If HMLR changes its fee structure it will have a positive impact on people buying and selling property and may save on land registration costs. Easy to Access Data will benefit various industries.
What’s Next?
The public opinion survey was conducted till April 5 and now HMLR will review the public’s response. After that, the Land Registry will soon announce the changes in the Fees Structure. Fees Structure may be re-discussed or a specific proposal may be made regarding fee structure.
It is important to keep an eye on HMLR’s official website to stay updated about HMLR’s fee structure and any other future changes. You can visit the website https://www.gov.uk/guidance/hm-land-registry-registration-services-fees for more information