The 4-Step Free Chancel Screening Process
Step 1: Check Property Title Register (£3 via GOV.UK). Look for any 'Unilateral Notice' or 'Caution' in Section C. If none exists and you are completing a purchase for valuable consideration, Section 29 protects you.
Step 2: Inspect Parish Church Foundation Date. Chancel repair only attaches to ancient medieval parish churches. If your local church was built in the 19th or 20th century, no rectorial tithe liability can exist.
Step 3: Evaluate Ownership History. Confirm whether the property passed through money transfers post-October 2013.
Step 4: Indemnity vs Full Search. If you remain uncertain, an indemnity policy (£35) is often cheaper and safer than paying for full historical tithe archive investigations (£150–£300).