Understanding the Deed of Covenant
                     Understanding the 
Deed of Covenant
Land Registry 
Online
Your comprehensive guide to property obligations in the UK
What is a Deed of 
Covenant?
Legal Agreement
A formally binding contract between two parties, typically 
freeholder and leaseholder
Property 
Obligations
Clearly defines rights and responsibilities related to 
property use and maintenance
Protection
Safeguards both buyer and seller by establishing clear 
responsibilities and expectations
Types of 
Covenants
Positive 
ACcotivonesn tahen ptroperty owner must perform
• Regular maintenance and repairs
• Payment of service charges
• Insurance obligations
Negative 
RCeostvriectnioanns ton what the owner must not do
• No pets policy
• Noise restrictions
• Building limitations
Why is a Deed of Covenant 
Important?
Dispute Ongoing 
PPrreevevnetsn ctoisotlny legal disputes by clearly defining all ERnesusrpeso rnesspibonisliibtiileitises continue seamlessly after 
obligations and expectations from the outset property sale, protecting future owners
Comprehensive Legal Security
CCoovveres raacgceess rights, easements, and land use Provides robust legal protection and peace of mind for 
restrictions with full legal backing all parties involved
Common Uses in UK 
P1ropLeearsethyold 
DAegfirneinegm teenanntt sduties and landlord obligations in 
residential and commercial properties
2 Restrictive 
PCroesveervninagn ptrosperty character and preventing 
unwanted development in residential areas
3 Rights of Way
Specifying access conditions for shared driveways, 
pathways, and utility access
Registration with the Land 
0R1 egistry
Registration 
RDeeeqdsu oirf eComveennatnt affecting land use should be registered with HM Land Registry
02
Official Record
Registration makes covenants part of the official title register for transparency
03
Recent Updates
Since November 2024, personal covenants are more accessible via the Land 
Registry portal
04
Title Reference
Title Register mentions any relevant covenants linked to the specific property
How a Deed of Covenant 
Affects You
Property Ongoing 
MRaeys ltimriitc atlitoernastions, extensions, or changes to COobulldig reaqtuiioren rsegular payments, maintenance 
property usage and appearance schedules, or specific upkeep standards
Future Owner Cancellation 
OBbinligdaitniogns "run with the land," meaning they bind RPermoocveinsgs a covenant requires formal agreement 
all future property owners from the benefiting party or legal action
Key Differences: Deed 
vs Restrictive Covenant
Deed of Covenant Restrictive 
Covenant
Comprehensive formal Specifically limits certain 
agreement involving both actions or uses on the 
positive obligations land, focusing primarily on 
(actions required) and restrictions
negative restrictions
Important: Both types are legally binding documents and 
are typically registered with HM Land Registry for official 
record-keeping and transparency.
Contact Land Registry 
Online
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Information?
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