Form ID3 is an alternative to form ID1 and is to be used where a party to a transaction to be registered at Land Registry is not represented by a conveyancer and their identity is not to be verified by a conveyancer.
It was introduced during the COVID19 pandemic lockdowns along with the ID5 in order to allow transactions to continue whilst observing social distancing.
Who can sign an ID3 form?
Only certain professionals can complete an ID3 to verify a person’s identity. They are:
- Medical Doctor;
- Dentist;
- Chartered or Certified Accountant;
- Regulated Financial Adviser;
- Member of Parliament;
- Member of the Senedd;
Additional rules that need to be complied with
Unlike verification via an ID1 / ID5, an ID3 verification appointment must take place in person. The ability to complete the meeting via video call was withdrawn in 2024 and at the same time the list of professionals that could verify was reduced. Furthermore, the verifier must have actually known the individual for at least a year and must produced a copy of their passport personal details page.
The verifier mut not be related to the person whose identity they verify and must not be involved in the transaction. That, arguably, includes a financial adviser who has arranged a mortgage for a buyer.
ID1 vs ID3
Both forms are currently valid but the scope in which an ID3 might be used is very narrow, and the appointment must be in person. It is possible that HMLR will in the near future withdraw the ID3 altogether, which could impact ongoing transactions.
The ID1 is unlikely to be withdrawn.