New electronic signature rule speeds up online conveyancing

摘要

Picking up a pen to sign transfer of ownership deeds, leases, mortgage documents and other property-related dealings may soon be a thing of the past, As of 27July, HM Land Registry now accepts documents that have been signed using a witnessed electronic signature. The new rule applies both to residential and commercial property, and requires that the process be led by the conveyancer and conducted via an electronic signature platform, such as DocuSign or Adobe. Signatories and witnesses receive an email, follow a link, authenticate their identity and can then virtually 'sign' the documents. Once all parties have signed, the conveyancer submits the completed deed along with their registration application.