In order that we can continue to deal with your searches properly, we need your help.
When submitting a search you should:-
- Complete LLC1 search form, CON29R and/or the CON29O Enquiries of Local Authority forms in duplicate.
- Ensure that the property/land to be searched is clearly stated in Box C.
- Provide a plan in duplicate clearly outlining in red the boundary of the plot and any footpaths/roads marked in a different colour.
- Ensure that cheques are made payable to “Darlington Borough Council” for the full amount including additional questions (see scale of fees).
- We only accept cheques from solicitors accounts and any cheques received from clients personal accounts will be returned together with the search.
- When referring to a new development please ensure that the postal address is provided.
- If searches do not contain two plans and a cheque for the correct amount then these will be returned.
Searches can now be submitted via NLIS. The Council is currently at Level 2. This means that searches can be received and returned electronically.
Expedited Search Service
An expedited search received before 12 noon on any working day will be processed and completed by 4:30 p.m. the same working day.
To use this service you should:-
- Submit the search on the usual LLC1 and CON 29R forms before 12 noon.
- Enclose the expedited search fee .
- Clearly state that the search is to be expedited.
The CON29O and additional enquiries may be submitted at the same time as a standard search. Although they are not at present covered by our express search guarantee we always aim to process these at the same time.
Additional Enquiries
These should be clearly typed on an additional sheet of paper and attached to the original search. Questions must be clear. The Council cannot answer enquiries such as “in the vicinity of” or “likely to affect the enjoyment” because they are too vague.
If you request an additional enquiry to be answered following completion of a local search an additional fee will be payable.
Information about other Roads, Footpaths and so on (Box C)
These roads must be clearly identified in Box C and if necessary marked on a plan. The Council will not accept phrases such as “all abutting”.
Site Location Plans
It is the responsibility of the purchaser’s solicitor to identify the area of land to be covered by the search. As a result applications will no longer be accepted without satisfactory identification including a site location plan. By adopting this approach we hope to provide a responsive and accurate service.
The Local Land Charges Section has moved away from the use of manual Ordinance Survey maps to computerised Geographical Information Service.
Drainage Enquiries
Since 1st June 2001 these are no longer dealt with by the Local Land Charges Section and should be directed to Northumbrian Water Ltd.