Guidance for solicitors and conveyancers
There are two ways you can apply to view the local land charges register at Hertsmere. You can either apply electronically using our Public Access System (PALC) or you can make an appointment to visit the offices in person.
Using Public Access for Land Charges (PALC)
PALC provides a totally electronic official search service, connecting users directly to land and property information held by Hertsmere Borough Council.
Searching for Addresses
The Local Land and Property Gazetteer (LLPG) holds the address of every official property in Hertsmere, so if the property you are looking for does not appear in the drop down menu there is a reason. Please check the following before submitting your search:
If you have not used the system before we would recommend reading the guidance notes first. When uploading your search, please ensure plans do not exceed 4MB.
PALC is a supplementary service for which we charge a reasonable fee. If you do not wish to use this service then please book an appointment to inspect the register at our council offices which is free of charge.
Making an Appointment
If you are seeking to inspect the register in person at our council offices, please email us to arrange an appointment.
You will need to supply the official address to be searched (not the developer address or plot number) and an up to date plan clearly marking the area you wish to be searched.
Once your request has been processed, we will email our Customer Service Team who will confirm availability.
Schedule of charges
Inspection of the register
PALC (Electronic view of the register) - £8
By appointment (In person at the council offices) - no charge
Component data
Residential - 1.1a-3.13 £3.60
Commercial - 1.1a-3.13 £4.80
There are currently no circumstances in which these charges may be waived.
Turnaround times
PALC - As part of the enhanced service we aim to provide a 'view of the register' within 10 days. Exceptions may apply during busy periods but we will always endeavour to update customers accordingly.
By appointment - We will comply soon as possible and no later than 20 working days following receipt of the request.
We do not offer an expedited service for these requests, they will be handled in time and date order.
Personal Search v Official Search
A personal search is where we are asked for access to environmental information to allow an individual to compile their own search. This type of request is handled under EIR.
Our duty under these regulations is to provide access to information only. We are not required to analyse information and/or guarantee the accuracy of the results. If we are asked to provide this service then our official charging schedule will apply. This also applies to requests for CON29 information.
Intellectual Property Rights and Copyright Infringement
The Council assert copyright in relation to data and documents originated or compiled by it, from information in its possession and therefore do not grant any licence for its reproduction or reuse.
Legal action will be taken against any individual or company if there is evidence to suggest that they reproducing or reusing data, this includes register information produced as part of a personal search.