Electronic Signatures in Commercial Property Transactions - The Latest Guidance

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic raised the importance of executing and signing real estate documents by virtual means. This is set to rapidly become the norm for a variety of reasons; not just the pandemic.

The Law Society has recently updated its practice note as has the City of London Law Society.

This webinar will look at the state of the law on e-signatures - when they can be used and when 'wet-ink' is preferable.

What You Will Learn

This webinar will cover the following:

• Basic requirements for contracts and deeds, virtual and 'wet-ink'
• Types of e-signatures - simple emails, scans, and e-signature portals
• Recent case law in this area
• Land Registry progress in this area
• What were the key changes made in October 2022 to the CLLS and TLS practice guide?
• What were the conclusions of the Government’s final report in March 2023 on electronic signatures and what does the future hold?
• Comparison of the various methods in relation to:
• Contracts
• Transfers
• Mortgages
• Other real estate documents
• Practical and physical issue
• Are there any documents where 'wet-ink' is essential?

This webinar was recorded on 11th July 2023