Performance

Strategic objective 8: To support the establishment of an independent adjudication service for Land Registry by 2003

The Land Registration Act 2002 makes provision for the establishment of a fully independent adjudication service for disputed applications to Land Registry, led by the Adjudicator to Land Registry.

The Adjudicator brings greater transparency and independence to determining these disputes, particularly in cases that have involved decisions by Land Registry officials, or where the outcome may affect the payment of indemnity by Land Registry. The Adjudicator will also consider applications to rectify or set aside certain documents relating to registered land. The adjudicator is located in London but will hear cases locally at venues within England and Wales as appropriate.

Mr Edward Cousins, the Chief Commons Commissioner and previously a member of the Rules Committee, has been appointed as the first Adjudicator to Land Registry. Mr Cousins took up his appointment on 13 October 2003 and by the end of March 2004 had received 140 referrals from Land Registry and six applications under the jurisdiction for rectification or setting aside of documents.