Why Accurate Plans Are Crucial for New Build Developments

Building new build properties comes with a number of different considerations. One important aspect to get right is the plans which are used for the development.

Well drawn plans will give potential buyers a clear understanding of what they are buying. They can also reduce any future boundary issues. The Land Registry has drawn up guidance as to what they deem to be acceptable plans, and here are some of the key rules to follow:

• The plan should be drawn accurately to a stated scale. The preferred scales are 1:1250 – 1:500 for urban properties or 1:2500 for rural properties. The plan should include a bar scale.
• The orientation of the plan should also be shown (for example, a north point).
• The general location of the development should be clear on the plan. This can be shown by including roads, road junctions or other landmarks surrounding the development which would allow the new build to be identifiable on the Ordnance Survey map.
• The layout of the development, including all buildings and roads should be shown in their correct (or intended) position. 
• Each plot should be easily identifiable on the plan, edged red and numbered according to each plot. This also includes showing any garages, parking spaces and bin storage areas which affect specific plot.
• Any rights of way (such as over a private road) or other easements should be identified by edging, colouring or hatching. Importantly, any edging/colouring should not obscure any other detail on the plan.
• Any additional edging, colouring or hatching shown on the plan must also be defined within the individual plot sale Transfer Deeds. 

We would always recommend that plans are drawn up by architects or surveyors to ensure that they meet the Land Registry’s requirements.
Once a plan has been prepared, it is possible to submit the plan to the Land Registry for approval.

Provided that the plan is of acceptable quality, the Land Registry will issue an Estate Plan Approval Letter. Whilst it should go without saying, it will be essential that the development is built in accordance with the approved plans.

It will be very problematic to cure boundary discrepancies after a house is complete and the legal transfer has occurred. Good contractual drafting can allow amendments to be made post completion albeit this can be difficult in practice.

Our experienced team advises developers throughout the lifecycle of a new build project, helping to ensure Land Registry compliance and avoid costly legal issues down the line. If you’re planning a development or need guidance on estate plans, get in touch with us today to ensure your documentation is legally watertight and future-proof.