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Posted Fri, 31 Oct 2025 17:05:48 GMT by Matthew Barr

Hi,

I have possessory title of a freehold house. The previous owner lost the deed.

I believe I can apply to update before the 12 year limit if I have evidence:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/upgrading-the-class-of-title/practice-guide-42-upgrading-the-class-of-title#upgrading-the-class-of-title https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/upgrading-the-class-of-title/practice-guide-42-upgrading-the-class-of-title#apply

My question is: what constitutes good evidence?

The possessory title has existed for 6 years, and I have looked into the electoral roll: the previous owner lived here continuously since 2002. It’s hard to prove a negative i.e. that no-one during that time argued that they had claim to the freehold, but my search also showed there was no County court judgments against the owner at this address.

I don’t want to spend £40 to apply if the only acceptable evidence is that the old deed has been found!

Thanks in advance,

Mat

Posted Sat, 01 Nov 2025 08:30:57 GMT by Adam Hookway
Hi Matthew - you have two choices. Apply to upgrade the title and provide supporting evidence to remedy the defect in the title that only allowed possessory title to be awarded. Or wait for the required period to pass before applying to upgrade to absolute title as the PG 42 explains
From what you have posted it appears that it's the second option that will apply here and you will need to wait 
Posted Sat, 01 Nov 2025 08:31:40 GMT by Adam Hookway
We would like to understand how easy or difficult it is to find information or get help from HM Land Registry. 
To help us understand what is working well and what could be improved, we are inviting you to tell us about your experiences.  
This will involve: 
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You can book a session by selecting the following link: Book time with Paloma Jain: How do you find information and get help from HM Land Registry? 
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This session will not be able to address any specific enquiries you have with HM Land Registry. You will need to continue using the support forum or other appropriate contact channels to get a response. 

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