We will always do our very best to assist with requests for information from our old files. We fully understand that sometimes papers do go astray, and that copy documents may be needed to assist with tax returns or subsequent dealings with your property.
We will try to deal with your request quickly and at minimal cost, but you must be aware that our files have been fully electronic for only a short period of time and consequently your request may require the physical retrieval of an archived file either from our contracted archiving provider, or from our own secure off-site deeds storage facility. Please also bear in mind that we do destroy our files after ten years.
Please also be aware that some of the information requests that we receive may also be satisfied more quickly (and cheaply) by getting the information directly from third parties.
If we do need to retrieve a file from our archiving provider we will usually make a charge of £30 plus VAT for doing so. The file may take around three days to be delivered to us. An expedited request can usually be accommodated, but for an additional charge.
We will usually store our clients’ title deeds (such as they do now exist) free of charge. Retrieval of those documents will therefore be at no cost to you, but there may be short delay in obtaining the documents. This is because a member of our staff needs to physically attend the off-site facility and remove the records.
If we have a recent copy of your title on our computerised case management system we will gladly send that to you without charge. Please be aware that if you need the title for a new transaction then the copies that we hold are undoubtedly going to be considered out of date.
If you do want an up to date copy of your title, we recommend that you visit the Land Registry’s website where you can order a copy at the same fee that we get charged.
We do not recommend that you use any source other than the official Land Registry site.
If you want a copy of your lease or other documents held by the Land Registry these are not easily available to the public without a Land Registry account. Again, if we hold these documents on our computerised case management system we will gladly forward an electronic copy without charge. If, however, we need to order these on your behalf we will pass on a handling fee of £5 per document in addition to the amount that we get charged.
We will gladly accept payment of our file retrieval fees by credit card or debit card over the telephone, or we can provide our bank details upon request for an electronic transfer.
If you are using (or considering using) us to help with the sale or remortgage of your property then we will usually waive the file retrieval fee.
Contact us today and our
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I can only recommend Ashworths. Been using them for
over 15 years, simply the best.”
Diana Greenham and her team at Ashworths have been fantastic in supporting and guiding us through the conveyancing requirements for our property. They were exceptionally thorough, efficient, and professional throughout the entire process, and always supportive and kind. Their expertise and ability to handle questions and resolve issues were truly impressive.
AM Feb 13, 2026
Ashworths are an excellent firm of solicitors. I have retained them on a number of property related sales. Their attention to detail was impressive as was their very personal style of service.
Davif Farrell Jan 12, 2026
In handling my commercial leases and property transactions, Brendan at Ashworths Solicitors has demonstrated an exceptional level of professionalism and expertise. He approaches every matter with precision, efficiency, and a clear focus on achieving…
Alex Winchester Jan 31, 2025
James Simmonds looked after the sale and purchase of properties for my mother with competence, efficiency and compassion. I would not hesitate to recommend his services and I hope to be able to use him again in due course.
Susannah Sykes Oct 19, 2025
Brendan carried out first class work with the sale of our property on a matter that was not straight forward. He clearly demonstrated the ability to make things happen whilst using clear instructions that get to the point and deliver results.
John Baxter Oct 14, 2025
Areej was fantastic she was always quick to respond, cheerful and incredibly clear. Her advice as informed and precise and her conduct was professional and accessible. Thank you so much!
Oscar Pearce Oct 12, 2025
Ashworths matched my needs exactly. Local, focused on property and represented owell. I have no hesitation recommending them.
John Simmonds Oct 8, 2025
I’ve always used Ashworths for all my properties since being a first time buyer, I simply wouldn’t go anywhere else. They are brilliant at what they do, knowledgeable, efficient, and I can always trust the team will do a top level job. I recommend them to all my friends.
Lucy Sep 29, 2025
Rated 4.6 on
