On 13 October 2003, the Land Registration Act 2002 and the Land Registration Rules 2003 come into force, completely replacing the statutory framework for land registration set out in the 1925 legislation.

Because of the major impact of the changes on its computer systems, the Land Registry will need to shut down all computer reliant services with effect from 12pm on 10 October 2003 until business as usual on 13 October 2003.

This close-down time is needed to ensure that all the extensive re-programming and testing work involved is completed in readiness for implementation.

The services that will be affected are: telephone services, Land Registry Direct and Land Register On-line.

Customers will still be able to contact Land Registry offices by telephone and make general enquiries.

However, as staff will be unable to access information held on the computer system, they may not be able to deal fully with all queries.

The Land Registry issued a letter informing customers of this on 29 August, a copy of which can be viewed at: www.landregistry.gov.uk, 'latest updates' on the Web site home page.

For additional information, contact any local Land Registry office or the Land Registry's Actionline, tel: 0870 9088 061, which is open weekdays from 9am to 5pm.

The changes brought into effect by the Land Registration Act 2002 are far-reaching.

A wide range of resources is available to inform solicitors through the Land Registry's Web site or Actionline.