Can a Chartered Legal Executive verify identity on an ID1 or ID2 Form?

Yes.

Chartered Legal Executives have been reinstated as signatories to the ID1 (verification of identity of an individual) and ID2 (verification of identity of a corporate body) forms.

Please note this does not mean that Chartered Legal Executives are able to undertake reserved instrument activities independently. See details of how to apply for conveyancing practice rights here if you wish to consider applying to become independently authorised.

What should I consider when completing the forms?

You should familiarise yourself with the contents of the forms and associated guidance and Land Registry practice guide 67. You will need to ensure that full and accurate details of identification are supplied before completing section B. Section A must be completed and the information from identity documents must match the information completed by the individual in section A. Check the photograph is a true likeness. Photographs should be recent, in colour and the subject facing directly to camera. You should ensure that you comply with any policies your firm has in relation to signing ID1 or ID2 forms. If you have any doubts about the validity of the documents supplied, or the photograph, you should not sign the form. You should discuss the matter with a partner or manager in the firm, or with your Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO), and consider whether you need to make a report to them.

What records should I keep?

Your firm is likely to have policies and procedures in place for keeping copies of the completed forms in which case you should comply with these. If not you will need to consider what records to keep, having regard to your data protection obligations (your firm should be registered as a data controller with the ICO), and your duties in relation to confidentiality. Your firm’s insurers may have requirements in relation to record keeping in high risk areas which you should also consider.

What is the appropriate fee?

Your firm may have a policy on whether to charge for identity verification and if so, how much. If not, you will need to agree any fee with the person whose identify you are verifying, and potentially with the firm.

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