UK Government Directs HM Land Registry to Restructure Fees and Enhance Data Systems by 2024

The UK government has instructed HM Land Registry to explore fee restructuring to lower housing transaction costs and prepare its data collection system for an April 2024 launch. Baroness Taylor emphasized the importance of customer expectations regarding application timelines and encouraged the use of automation and AI for efficient operations. The Land Registry is also urged to support housing reforms, including the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024, while ensuring transparency in land ownership data.

Published Mar 24, 2026

The UK government has mandated HM Land Registry to evaluate its fee structure to reduce housing transaction costs. Baroness Taylor, representing the Ministry of Housing, requested a business plan for 2026-27 and highlighted the need for transparency and timely processing of applications.

AI-curated by Theia

Following a fee increase in 2024, she stressed the importance of automation and new technologies to enhance customer service. The Land Registry is also directed to assist in implementing the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 and to prepare a data collection system to launch in April 2024. Taylor called for clear milestones and performance measures in business planning.