Overview
The Title Plan is the Land Registry’s official map that accompanies each registered title. It’s drawn to OS base mapping standards and shows the land’s location, extent and general boundaries.
- Identifies the land edged in red on an OS base map.
- Shows adjoining roads, landmarks and reference numbers.
- Cross-references the Title Register’s Property Register.
- Useful for conveyancing, boundary checks and ownership verification.
The OS Base Map Mapping layer
The base map is derived from OS base’s MasterMap Topography layer. It provides a consistent geographic background for all registered titles in England and Wales.
| Scale | Usually 1:1250 in urban areas, 1:2500 in rural areas. Very large sites may be 1:10000. |
|---|---|
| Detail shown | Buildings, fences, hedges, roads, watercourses, tracks and other physical features identifiable on OS mapping. |
| Map Sheet Reference | An OS map reference (e.g. “SJ 1234 NE”) identifying the underlying sheet used to create the plan. |
The Red Edging Extent of title
The red edging (known as “the red line”) marks the general boundaries of the land included in the title. It is drawn according to the information supplied at first registration and updated when changes occur.
- The red line indicates ownership extent but is not a precise survey boundary.
- It follows OS features such as walls, fences, or building lines.
- Additional colours may be used for other titles or rights (e.g. blue, brown, green tinting).
Tip: If the register mentions coloured areas (e.g. “land tinted blue”), those correspond to markings on the plan.
General Boundaries Rule Interpretation
Land Registry plans are governed by the General Boundaries Rule (Land Registration Act 2002, s.60). It means:
- The exact line of a legal boundary is not determined unless a separate determined boundary application is made.
- The red edging represents the boundary “in general position” only.
- Minor discrepancies between the plan and physical features on site do not affect ownership.
| Determined Boundaries | If parties agree or the Land Registry determines a precise boundary, it’s marked with a black line and noted on the plan. |
|---|---|
| Shared or party boundaries | These are not identified unless specifically defined by a deed or determined boundary application. |
What the Plan Can’t Confirm
- Who owns a particular fence, wall, or hedge.
- Exact measurements or coordinates of the boundary line.
- Whether land has been encroached upon or fenced incorrectly.
- Subterranean rights or airspace above the land.
- Planning or building control boundaries (these are separate datasets).
Boundary disputes often require a chartered surveyor’s plan or legal advice. The Title Plan is a starting point, not definitive proof.
You can request a Determined Boundary or Boundary Agreement here. We can help prepare the necessary forms and evidence.
Contact us for helpFrequently Asked Questions
Does the red line show the exact boundary?
Can I measure my plot size from the plan?
What do blue or brown areas mean?
Can I get a colour copy?
Order your official Title Plan
Get the latest copy of your Title Plan to confirm ownership extent and see registered boundaries.
Important
We are an independent document assistance service and are not affiliated with HM Land Registry. We provide guidance and help you obtain official documents through the appropriate channels.