On 13 October 2003 the Land Registration Act 2002 and Land Registration Rules 2003 came into force. They have completely replaced the law for land registration. Together, the new Act and Rules govern the role and practice of Land Registry.

The Land Registration Act 2002 achieves the following:

• it simplifies and modernises land registration law and is the first major overhaul of the land registration system for 75 years
• it makes the register a more complete picture of a title to land - showing more fully the rights and interests affecting it
• it provides a framework for the development of electronic conveyancing.

Major changes to the law and practice affect all those involved with registered land. In particular:

• shorter leases must now be registered
• voluntary registration is available for new types of interest in land
• changes affect the protection of third party interests
• the law of adverse possession (squatters rights) has been reformed.

To help you deal with the changes Land Registry has published new practice guides, which are available on this site.