How to Resolve Property Title Issues
Buying a House with Property Title Issues
Purchasing a home is one of the most significant investments most of us will make. However, property title issues can complicate the process.
Issues can include unclear boundaries or restrictions on land use, both of which can cause serious legal challenges. With the right legal guidance, you can overcome these obstacles with confidence.
Property Title Problems
Dealing with property title issues when buying a home might seem daunting and an additional source of stress and confusion. In situations where there are property title issues, our specialists can advise clients on the best way to proceed, taking a pragmatic approach.
One of the main issues we see relates to boundaries. These may be legal (with title deeds) or physical (a fence or wall). Our specialists are experienced in property title issues and will review the relevant documentation to help you identify unclear boundaries. Should there be any irregularities or if a dispute arises, we have highly experienced lawyers who will help you to find a solution.
The land may benefit from easements or may be subject to easements. An easement is a right over someone else’s land for a specified purpose. It is attached to a piece of land to protect it or benefit it. It could relate to:
- Rights of way – allowing access across land by someone who does not own the land, usually the general public or a neighbour
- Rights of light – protecting light received through windows in existing buildings
- Rights to support or protection
- Rights for passage of water – for example, drainage or a fresh water supply and other services
Our specialists will help you to establish whether an easement affects or benefits land that you already own or intend to acquire. Rights of light can be a particular problem with regards redevelopments and should be considered if planning an extension.
If you currently have rights over another property, you may decide to release them. You should take legal advice before finalising matters to ensure you understand the implications of relinquishing your rights and to protect your best interests. At Hart Brown, we are experienced at assisting clients with releasing their own rights over a property when requested.
Experts in Restrictive Covenants & Property Title Issues
Restrictive covenants are also issues that may burden or benefit land. A restrictive covenant is a condition that restricts, limits, prohibits or prevents the actions of a landowner. Ultimately, they restrict how land can be used. For example, a restriction could prohibit the use of the property for business purposes, or it may limit development or alteration of the property.
If you are buying a property, our solicitors will help you to understand the effect of any restrictive covenants which may affect your decision to purchase the property. We also have a specialist property disputes team who can help you to resolve any disputes that may arise regarding restrictive covenants.
If you encounter title issues when buying a house or land, please call us on 01483 887766, email info@hartbrown.co.uk or start a live chat. We look forward to hearing from you.