How can I obtain a copy of my head lease?

thoughtsbyvalsy

Hello,

I'm a FTB in the process of purchasing a repossessed flat which I will live in.

The conveyancing process seemed to be going smoothly until before Easter when the solicitor informed me that in order to complete the sale, all she needed to obtain were copies of the head lease for the building and fire regulations from the management company. She said these would both be supplied by the vendor's solicitor.

Despite a 28 day deadline for exchange set by the vendor this information has not been forthcoming. My solicitor insisted she was chasing this information. Yesterday - 42 days after our offer had been accepted - I contacted the management company directly to ask why there was such a delay. They said they hadn't heard from the vendor's solicitors since January and were unaware of the sale and had not been asked to provide the fire regulations. They also said the head lease would need to be obtained from the Land Registry.

I'm frustrated with my solicitor - she really seems quite unconcerned that this is dragging on and I am homeless in 2 weeks! - so I ordered a copy of the fire regulations directly. I now need to obtain the head lease. Can any one advise how I can obtain a copy of the head lease for the building? I've been on the Land Registry website but it's really not clear.

Any guidance much appreciated by this forum newbie.

Land_Registry

You would need to apply by post for a copy of the head lease if it is registered and the property is in England & Wales.
Our online FAQ explains the procedure to follow and the use of form OC2

You would complete form OC2 with the relevant details of the lease you require - you may need to check the registered title for details such as the date etc but presumably you (or your solicitor) already have that information?
Your solicitor may be able to request the copy using our online services if they are a registered user. Otherwise they, like you, would apply by post.

Obtaining a copy, providing it is available, would normally only take a few days (inc the post) at most. I would recommend contacting the solicitor to discuss the most expedient way of getting the copy i.e. them or you.

If you are unsure as to the process of applying for a copy then you can Contact Us for advice on filling in the form and or lodging the application. We cannot provide legal advice or provide you with specific details regarding the head lease over the telephone.