There are two parts to a local authority search – a LLC1 and a CON29.
The LLC1 (Local Land Charge Register search) covers any ‘charges’ or ‘restrictions’ relating to land or property.
They can tell you whether the property you are buying is:
- A listed building
- In a conservation area
- Subject to a tree protection order
- In need of an improvement or renovation grant
- Situated in a smoke control zone
This search also covers planning agreements and conditional planning permissions.
The second part of the search – the CON29 – supplies information regarding public highways. This could show up any proposals for new roads, railways and other local planning decisions that could affect the property you want to buy. These searches also cover outstanding statutory notices, breaches of planning or building regulations and compulsory purchase orders.
Other environmental factors, such as whether the house stands on contaminated land, or in a Radon gas affected area are also covered.
Not included in local authority searches but can be paid for as extras are searches that would uncover:
- Applications for proposed development of roads.
- Searches concerning flooding, the proximity of landfill sites or potentially contaminated sites
- Water authority searches/public sewers within the boundaries of the property
- Chancel Repair reports