AP1s were top of mind throughout 2022 as the deadline to switch to digital drew nearer. But the focus on registration applications didn’t end just because AP1s went digital. In fact, it’s given a renewed drive to continue optimising the process and the technology behind it.
87% of firms are using digital AP1s according to the Digital Conveyancing Maturity Index. There’s no doubt that the mandate in autumn 2022 was a catalyst for boosting the adoption of digital registration applications. But innovation doesn’t end there.
At InfoTrack, we’ve helped law firms submit more than 1.4 million digital AP1s to HM Land Registry since 2016, so we’re well acquainted with the task. And despite digital AP1s making the process faster, easier, and more accurate for conveyancers, we’re always looking for ways to continue improving the process. So, let’s look at how we’re doing that.
AI and AP1s
The AI hype exploded last year, and the legal industry hasn’t been immune. The technology has slowly been introduced into parts of broader legal processes in recent years, so it’s no surprise that it has finally made its way into conveyancing.
But AI isn’t just being used because it’s on trend: We reviewed some of the biggest pain points conveyancers were experiencing in the post completion process and looked at the best way to tackle them. We landed on AI, not because we wanted to include AI for the sake of it, but because it was the best solution for the problem. We’re using AI to solve real world problems, like minimising the risk of mismatched information between deeds and the AP1 application.
Reducing requisition rates even further
Requisitions are one of the biggest frustrations with AP1s, especially when they’re avoidable. The mandate has seen requisition rates drop over the last 18 months, and we’re committed to driving those numbers further down wherever possible. With the inclusion of validations throughout and AI, we’re helping firms to reduce their requisitions by up to 40% – meaning fewer delays with post completion.
Making AP1s accessible for everyone
Completing registration applications shouldn’t be a challenge just because the forms are complicated. We’re targeting improvements that make the AP1 submission process more accessible to all members of your team, whether they’re new to conveyancing or have years of experience.
We’ve introduced smart forms which only require information applicable to certain application types, and handy user guidance within the forms to simplify their completion. And it’s making a big difference. Call rates for assistance with completing AP1 applications are down to 1% thanks to these changes.
Better management and oversight of applications
Visibility is crucial to staying on top of your matters, which is why focusing on improving the management and oversight of applications has been key for enhancements we’ve been making to the AP1 dashboard in InfoTrack.
Not only can you access convenient chat functionality via a WhatsApp-style chat feature, but additional tools to request expedites and cancellations make managing your applications easier and faster. It’s about reducing barriers that slow down the process when there’s a simple way to use technology to remove those challenges.
We also know the value of being able to see everything at a glance. Using an AP1 dashboard gives you visibility of all applications at a firm level, making staying on top of key dates simpler and helping avoid missed deadlines.
Connecting the dots between AP1 and the rest of the conveyancing process
All the benefits of digitising AP1s are compounded when you interconnect them with other parts of the conveyancing process. Populating data from the SDLT and auto-attaching the SDLT5 means your AP1 is prepared in seconds. Linking with LMS to automate lender updates on the AP1 removes unnecessary steps in the process and ensures you’re meeting all lender requirements. And notifications for expiring priorities when an AP1 hasn’t been submitted helps you stay on top of tasks and avoid headaches later.
Simplifying the process without compromising flexibility
When it comes down to it, every registration application needs to be treated individually. Some are typical and we know you want to minimise the effort required to complete and submit those common AP1s to improve efficiency. But, when complex applications arise, we are ensuring there’s the flexibility you need. Whether it’s complex entries and restrictions on a title that need to be addressed, or various leasehold or commercial transactions that require additional attention, our smart AP1s provide the flexibility to get it done.
Continued development with digital AP1s
We’ve come a long way with digitising post completion, and that’s why it’s the most digitally mature part of the conveyancing process. Since 2016, we’ve seen digital adoption truly take hold in conveyancing and it’s helping firms get more out of their technology and their teams. It’s also relieving a lot of the administrative drain and letting conveyancers get back to what they do best – using their legal expertise to help home movers with one of the biggest investments in their life.
However, while AP1s went digital over a year ago, the journey clearly doesn’t end there. Like all good things, there’s a sustained evolution that focuses on enhancements to further improve accessibility, minimise challenges, and ultimately make the process easier than it was before. Let’s see where the journey takes us.
Louise Edwardes is Head of Product, InfoTrack
This article was published by InfoTrack as part of their advertising agreement with Today’s Conveyancer. The views expressed in this article are those of the submitter and not those of Today’s Conveyancer.
