From Monday 27 July 2020, HM Land Registry accepts “witnessed electronic signatures” – electronic signatures that enable an individual to sign legal documents, but which still require a witness who is present at the time to also sign the documents electronically.

The organisation has published new practice guidance for conveyancers on how to use electronic signatures after seeking feedback from across the sector.

The new guidance on their use will enable the providers of electronic signatures to develop new affordable and accessible tools for conveyancers to use.

Simon Hayes, Chief Executive and Chief Land Registrar said, “What we have done today is remove the last strict requirement to print and sign a paper document in a home buying or other property transaction. This should help right now while lots of us are working at home, but it is also a keystone of a truly digital, secure and more efficient conveyancing process that we believe is well within reach. The more sophisticated qualified electronic signatures are a part of that vision and encouraging those is where our attention will be directed next.”