How to Find the Rightful Owners of Abandoned Houses in Essex

The charming county of Essex, with its blend of urban and rural landscapes, is not immune to the phenomenon of abandoned houses. Whether through legal complications, relocation, or neglect, many properties have been left vacant, deteriorating over time. Abandoned houses in Essex can be the result of a range of circumstances. Homeowners might have passed away without heirs, moved away without selling their property, or found unable to maintain their homes due to financial difficulties. Over time, these properties may become derelict, but that doesn’t mean they are without ownership. Often, the owners are simply difficult to trace, particularly if the house has been left untouched for years.


Can You Claim Abandoned Houses?

It may seem tempting to stake a claim to an abandoned property, but it's not that simple. In the UK, abandoned homes still legally belong to someone, even if they appear derelict. Squatters’ rights are largely no longer applicable under the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012. However, if a property has been left abandoned for an extended period, local councils may intervene and, in rare cases, allow new ownership through legal avenues like adverse possession, although this process is long and complex.

Steps to Find the Rightful Owner of an Abandoned House

If you’re keen to find the owner of an abandoned house in Essex, there are several steps you can follow:

Check the Land Registry

The most reliable way to find the owner of a property is by searching the UK Land Registry. For a small fee, you can access details of who owns the land or property, including their contact information if it’s available. This is a crucial first step in identifying the rightful owner.

Contact the Local Council

Local councils in Essex maintain records of abandoned properties and may have more information about specific houses. You can get in touch with the council's housing department to see if they have any data on the property and whether it is subject to any enforcement or compulsory purchase orders.

Ask Around the Neighbourhood

Neighbours are often the best sources of information when it comes to tracking down the history of an abandoned house. They may know where the owner went or what happened to the property. Word of mouth can sometimes lead to the breakthrough you need.

Look at Local Property Records

Local libraries or historical archives may have records that can help. These might include old phone directories, electoral rolls, or other public records that list previous owners of properties.

Seek Legal Advice

If you have identified a property of interest, consulting a solicitor who specialises in property law can help you understand your options. They can guide you through the legal steps to contact the owner or, in rare cases, assist with claims for adverse possession.

Summary: Finding the rightful owner of an abandoned house in Essex requires persistence and research. By using tools such as the Land Registry and seeking information from the local council and community, you can often trace the owner.

Location: Coggeshall Rd, Braintree CM7 9BY, UK

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