Adding spouse's name to the title deed

I would like to add my spouse's name to my property's deeds.<br> <br> The gov website suggests only AP1 is needed (https://www.gov.uk/registering-land-or-property-with-land-registry/transfer-ownership-of-your-property), but other websites suggest that both AP1 and TR1 are needed (e.g. https://freeconveyancingadvice.co.uk/Q&amp;A/diy-conveyancing/tr1-or-ap1#:~:text=Form%20TR1%20is%20the%20transfer,the%20Land%20Registry%20application%20form)<br> <br> Please advise.

Hello Sebastiaan - I would advise you to examine the gov.uk website page again.  There are 5 steps listed about the process, the first three of which set out the forms that need to be completed. 

We need the form AP1, form TR1, and evidence of identity in form ID1 or form ID3 for all those who are not legally represented. 

I hope this helps. 

Thank you. I should have looked more carefully.

But tell me, why not merge the transfer form and registration form into one, because surely there's no point in transferring a property without registering that transfer.

Sebastiaan - The two forms are different because they serve different purpose legally. 

The form TR1 is a legal deed for a transfer. 

The form AP1 is an application form to HM Land Registry to change / update a title register.  This form is used in a variety of circumstances, not just to register a transfer. 

I hope this helps. 

Thank you.

Some further questions, if I may:

• The list of professions that can certify identity includes 'chartered or certified accountant'. I have a friend who is a 'chartered management accountant'. Is he permitted to certify our identities?
• What do I enter under 'Applications in priority order?' in section 4 of AP1? I'm transferring my property (currently in my name only), not for money, and with no mortgage, to myself and my wife. Can I use the wording 'Registration of transfer of property (gift)'? Or would you recommend a different wording?
• In the same box 4 on form AP1, under 'Price paid/value', do I put the current market value of the property?
• Fees: is there also a fee for TR1separately? Or are TR1 and AP1 together charged as one application with one fee?

Sebastiaan -  I respond to your further questions in the same order 
 

• 'Chartered Management Accountant' is not the same as 'Chartered or Certified Accountant'.  I believe they are regulated by different bodies.  However, it is best you check with your friend to see if he qualifies. 
• You can enter "Transfer by way of gift"
• Yes.  Please enter the current market value under the Price paid/value column. 
• There is no separate fee for transfer.  You pay a single fee for the application under Scale 2 of our Fees Order based on the current market value of the property. 

Hope this helps. 

You write: "You pay a single fee for the application under Scale 2 of our Fees Order based on the current market value of the property" But given that I'm transferring to myself and my wife it's half the current market value, right?

Also, does the copy of the title deed need to be an Official Copy, or can I simply download the one on the Land Registry site and have that certified?

If the latter is the case, can I have it certified by a lawyer or retired teacher?

I meant to ask you if the fee is half the fee corresponding to the current market value.

Sebastiaan - The fee is calculated on the value of share, i.e. half the fee corresponding to the current market value.

I am not sure what your reference to title deed is about.  If the property is already registered with us then you do not need to submit a copy or official copy of the title register.  The register is electronically held by us anyway so we don't need you to submit a copy.  

You write: "I am not sure what your reference to title deed is about.  If the property is already registered with us then you do not need to submit a copy or official copy of the title register.  The register is electronically held by us anyway so we don't need you to submit a copy."

But on this website: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/change-the-register-ap1/guidance-completing-form-ap1

it says: "List all the documents you are sending to us. We will only require certified copies of deeds or documents you send to us."

Sebastiaan - the reference to certified copies of deeds or documents relates other evidence submitted in support of the application, for example marriage certificate, death certificate, probate, etc.   We do not require copy of the title register and / or title plan if the property is already registered with us. 

<p>Thanks.</p> <p>You might refer clients to the excellent Land Registry video:&#160;<b>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wlfrtxhx_is</b></p>