2025-02-21 28Hse Editor
In the previous article, we discussed the important information you can uncover through a property search, such as ownership details and property-related encumbrances. This time, we’ll dive into the steps involved in conducting a property search, as well as the costs, so you can do it yourself from the comfort of your home.
The Land Registry is divided into two categories: "Current Property Particulars" and "Historical and Current Property Particulars." The former includes the name of the current owner and all relevant documents affecting the property since the current owner acquired it. The latter provides records of all documents that have ever impacted the property, past or present.
For most buyers, ordering the "Current Property Particulars" is sufficient. You can conduct a property search using the Integrated Registration Information System (IRIS) online service provided by the Land Registry. Alternatively, you can visit the Land Registry’s Customer Service Centre or New Territories Search Offices in person to use their counter or self-service search facilities. These services allow you to view the land records of properties across all districts and order copies of land documents.
The most convenient method is to use the IRIS online service, which lets you conduct a search and order records from home. The process is relatively straightforward. Follow these steps to complete a property search.
To begin, access the IRIS website and select the "Search" option. From there, click "Search Land Register" and log in as a casual user, which means you don’t need a registered account. Starting from November 1, 2021, the Land Registry tightened its search requirements. You now need to provide your name and Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID) number before proceeding. This step is mandatory to continue the search.
Once logged in, you can input the details of the property you wish to search for. Searches can be conducted using the property’s street name, the name of the estate or building, the lot number, or the property reference number. After selecting your preferred search method, you will need to specify additional details, such as the building block, floor, and unit number.
After entering the search details, the system will retrieve the corresponding records. Be sure to carefully verify whether the address or lot number matches the property you want to search for. If the details are incorrect, you can go back and re-enter the address to make corrections. Once the information is verified, you will be asked to select whether you want the "Current Property Particulars" or the "Historical and Current Property Particulars."
After confirming your selection, you can proceed to place your order. The system allows you to choose the format in which you wish to receive the land register, such as PDF or HTML. Once you have selected the format, you must provide your contact information, including your name and phone number. After completing the payment, the land register will be made available to you.
The fees for a property search are relatively affordable. A "Current Property Particulars" record costs HK$10, while a "Historical and Current Property Particulars" record costs HK$25. Payments can be made via Faster Payment System (FPS), credit card, or Payment by Phone Service (PPS).
If you only have the owner’s name and do not know the property they own, it is not possible to conduct a property search. The public is only allowed to search for properties registered under their own name, which costs HK$1,400. To protect privacy, the Land Registry does not allow individuals to search for properties owned by others unless written authorization from the owner is provided.
By following these steps, you can easily conduct a property search and obtain important property details on your own.
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