Property Services

Council owned land and premises

Our Corporate Property Service manages land and property owned and managed by us. Not all land in the borough is owned by us, as much of it is owned by private individuals, companies or other organisations.

For full details of the services provided by the Corporate Property Team.

We maintain a computerised system which identifies property and land within council ownership. Information is also held on property and land when it is disposed and acquired, lettings and leases of council owned property together with any special conditions associated with the land.

The information only relates to land and property owned by us and not land or property in private ownership or let / leased via private landlords.

Frequently asked questions

Can you tell me whether the land next to my house is council owned?

Records held by us can identify whether land is owned by us or not, provided the precise location of the land can be accurately described (see below for information we need in order to help you).

What if I want to know who owns private property?

Please contact the Land Registry on 020 7917 8888 to obtain the relevant enquiry form. Please note that the Land Registry will be unable to assist you if it turns out that the land concerned is unregistered, in which case you may wish to make enquiries locally with neighbours.

Alternatively, if the land is subject to development proposals the Head of Planning will be able to provide information on recent planning applications received.

What information do I need to give you before you can tell me whether you own a particular property or area of land?

We need to know the boundaries of the land in question and if possible the full postal address. The boundaries are often difficult to describe precisely over the telephone without looking together at a detailed map (which can be arranged for personal visitors).

We should be able to tell from a telephone enquiry whether we own land nearby, but for a more precise answer, a plan showing the exact boundaries of the land can be submitted by fax or post (see contact details at the top of the page).

For land or property with a postal address or which can be described accurately without a detailed plan, enquiries may be submitted online via propertyservices@lbbd.gov.uk - Please note: Include your email address if available.

Is there a charge for this information?

Not at present. However, dependent upon the future demand for this service, we may consider introducing a charge to offset the administrative costs.

How long will it take you to find out the information I have requested?

Again, this will be dependent upon demand and also upon the need for a detailed plan to be submitted to us. If the level of enquiries remains manageable, and provided all necessary details have been provided to us, then a telephone response can normally be given within a few working days.

In certain cases, depending on the complexity of land ownership in the area, reference to our deeds may be required in which case the enquiry may take longer.