Which questions should it answer?
- Who is the registered owner?
- Are there mortgages, attachments, proceedings or other registered charges?
- Do the plot and title details match the property being offered?
- Is the search recent enough for the proposed transaction?
What does it not prove on its own?
An ownership search is not evidence of planning permission, completed infrastructure, a fair price or a future investment return. Each of those questions needs its own evidence and professional review.
How should you review it?
Compare the plot, sheet, owner and date shown on the search with the sale contract. Ask for written explanations of unfamiliar entries from a professional who is independent of the seller.