Information etc
Section 66: Inspection of the registers etc
113.Section 66 provides that, subject to any exceptions specified in rules, anyone may inspect and make copies of the register of title together with any other document either referred to in the register or kept in relation to an application affecting that register. This extends the current legislation, which excepts leases or charges (or copies of them) from inspection. In addition documents kept by the registrar relating to an application, but not referred to in the register can currently only be inspected at the registrar’s discretion. A right to inspect and copy any such document is now established. Anyone may also inspect the register of cautions against first registration. Rules will govern how those rights are exercised, including the requirement to pay fees.
Section 67: Official copies of the registers etc
114.Section 67 provides that the official copy registers and other documents obtained under the right contained in section 66 are admissible in evidence to the same extent as the original document would be. Rules will specify the form of official copies, how they are applied for and who supplies them, and may impose conditions including the requirement to pay fees. Subsection (2) provides that a person who relies on an official copy in which there is a mistake is not liable for loss suffered by another by reason of that mistake. The person who suffers loss will be entitled to indemnity in accordance with paragraph 1 of Schedule 8.
Section 68: Index
115.Section 68 provides that the registrar must keep an index which will indicate for any parcel of land in England and Wales, if there are any registered estates relating to that parcel and if there are, the title number or other identifier used for the register(s) relating to that parcel. The index must also show if there is a caution against first registration of unregistered land. Rules may specify how the index, and the information in it, is to be kept and how official searches of that index are to be undertaken. Rules may also specify additional information to be found from the index.
Section 69: Historical information
116.Section 69 provides that the registrar may on application provide information about the history of a title. Rules will govern how applications are made and processed.
Section 70: Official searches
117.Section 70 sets out the rule-making powers relating to official searches of both the register and the list of applications received but not yet processed relating to the first registration of title. Rules will govern how applications are made and processed, including the issue of the results of search.
