A common area is an area which is owned jointly by multiple properties. For example:

A modern housing development might include a play area which is owned in common by all of the houses in the development.
A row of garages or lock-ups might include a common forecourt which is jointly owned by all of the garage owners.
If a large house is converted into flats, each flat might jointly own a share of the garden ground.

How will I recognise common areas?

The application form contains a question relating to common areas. The question will be answered “yes”. If the other subjects are in the land register, the agent will usually also include a note of the title numbers.

What else do I need to know?

There’s no need to make any further checks. Solicitors often answer “no” to the common areas question, even when the application includes common areas. If so, legal/plans settlers will identify the common areas at a later stage.

Form examples

Useful Links

Common Areas

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