IHTM09286 - Databases: VOA database
RRLT (
IHTM09261) access this database through
the Valuation Office Agency’s (VOA) (
IHTM23002) Property Intelligence Unit
(PIU) in Sheffield.
The information on the database comes from copies of
Particulars Delivered (PD) produced to the Land Registry by the
purchaser’s solicitor and has information relating to
freehold and leasehold (leases of 7 years or more) disposals from
1992.
The search is made by reference to surname only so a search
for a common surname like Smith would find too many hits to be
useful. Even with less common names it is helpful to be able to
restrict the search to a particular geographical area as that would
be more likely to find the person we are interested in. So, if you
can identify the area in which the person was likely to have
property, for example the area where the person lived and worked,
the search is more likely to be successful. It also helps the PIU
to have any relevant background information. When asking for a VOA
database search therefore please supply relevant details in your
e-mail accompanying the RISK 1 or RISK 2 form so that RRLT can pass
these on.
If a search is successful we will be sent a screen print
providing limited information. This will include the names of the
transferor and transferee, the address of the property and amount
paid. For leasehold property this would be the annual rent, date of
lease and duration of the lease. If nil is shown this might simply
mean that someone has not input the figure.
If we receive any screen prints RRLT will normally issue form
116 for a copy of the PD, for full details of the transfer, and
send it on to you when received.
(This text has been withheld because of exemptions in the
Freedom of Information Act 2000).
Examples of when you might ask for a search are
- where the deceased was apparently active in the property field but the IHT account shows no property held at the date of death, or
- an informant alleges that the deceased held property not declared but does not give a precise address or location.
You should say why you want a VOA Database search on the RISK 1 or RISK 2.
