Bona Vacantia

The Bona Vacantia Division of the Government Legal Department explains how to refer or seek to buy land and buildings formerly owned by a dissolved company and now belonging to the Crown. Applicants must submit the BVC2 referral form with evidence of ownership, Land Registry documents, information about buildings, occupation, planning matters and any mortgages or charges. The division may disclaim land without notice, particularly where it is dangerous, onerous, disputed or of limited value, and is not required to sell or transfer property to the applicant. Potential purchasers must fund valuation fees in advance, pay legal costs and disbursements if a sale proceeds, and accept sales without title guarantees or assistance with registration. Independent legal advice is recommended because purchasers assume responsibility for third-party rights, charges and registration.

Guidance for leaseholders in England and Wales seeking to buy the freehold reversion of a flat or house formerly owned by a dissolved company and now vested in the Crown as bona vacantia. The Bona Vacantia Division may sell the interest jointly to participating leaseholders or their management company, but may instead disclaim it. Applicants must consult fellow leaseholders, complete the BVC4 referral form, provide specified evidence and documents, and consider using a solicitor. The price depends on property values, lease lengths and ground rents, with valuation by the District Valuer required in higher-value or shorter-lease cases; applicants must also pay legal costs, valuation fees and other disbursements. The guidance explains requirements for leasehold reversions, mortgages, management companies, anti-money-laundering checks and the risk of disclaimer if information or cooperation is delayed.