S6.10 Execution by Means of Adhesive Labels

The Keeper’s policy in relation to signatures on adhesive labels remains unchanged by the 1995 Act in that they are wholly unacceptable. A signature written on a piece of paper or a label and stuck onto a plan or other annexation is contrary to section 8 (2) of the 1995 Act. This section clearly indicates the need to sign the annexation itself.

It is not uncommon to find a docket has been affixed to an annexation of a deed but again this is equally unacceptable. The 1995 Act clearly states that an annexation must be identified ‘on its face’. The Keeper’s interpretation of this is that it must be on the physical surface of the deed. No label, however well it is fixed, could be considered part of the annexation. A label could be removed or replaced, or even overlaid with another label. 

It follows that writings and signatures on adhesive labels are to be disregarded as ineffectual. However, the use of an adhesive label for a docket will not automatically make a deed unacceptable for recording or registration because there may be other identification on the face of the annexation, which is sufficient to permit its acceptance.