The Chancel Repair Report

The history of Chancel Repair searches dates back prior to 1189 and is linked with the old right of the church to collect tithes. Although tithe liability has ceased and private individuals have acquired much of the land previously owned by the church, the liability for repairs to the parish church can remain attached to the land.

What does the report contain?
A Chancel Repair search will reveal whether a certain property is liable to contribute towards repairs at the local parish church.

Who does it affect?
It is not uncommon to find such liabilities affecting ordinary dwellings on housing estates, although it is more likely to affect rural properties rather than urban ones.

The absence of any formal 'notice' relating to the liability on any of the normal conveyancing documents means it will not be revealed by the standard conveyancing searches. As the liability for payment could be substantial, it is something that the buyer needs to be made aware of.

We can conduct a Chancel Repair search on your behalf and this will identify whether liability exists and specify the apportionment between the plots of land subject to it.

We can obtain a certificate within 24 hours and report with 2-4 working days, if required.