The UK property sector is preparing for a significant shift in how transactions are completed as HM Land Registry encourages law firms and conveyancers to adopt Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES) for TR1 transfer deeds and mortgage deeds.
The move marks a major step towards fully digital conveyancing and could accelerate the decline of traditional wet signatures across the property transaction process.
Momentum behind the transition has increased following the completion of what is understood to be the UK’s first live TR1 transfer deed executed using a Qualified Electronic Signature.
The transaction was completed by Veyco in partnership with MJP Conveyancing and is being viewed by many as a milestone in the sector’s digital transformation.
REDUCE TRANSACTION TIMES
The development comes as the conveyancing industry continues to face pressure to reduce transaction times, improve client experience and increase operational efficiency, while maintaining compliance and security standards.
To help firms understand the implications of the change, Veyco is hosting an industry webinar on 1 July titled The End of Wet Signatures in 2026 – The UK’s Shift to QES. Hosted by conveyancing educator Ian Quayle, the session will examine the practical realities of implementing Qualified Electronic Signatures, including compliance requirements, operational considerations and risk management.
Clare McKenna of Veyco says: “We are at a real turning point in conveyancing. The acceptance of Qualified Electronic Signatures by HM Land Registry is far more than a technical change because it primarily alters how property transactions can be completed.
“Our focus at Veyco is to help as many firms as possible adopt this technology in a practical, compliant way, and evolve their processes at pace. Those that do will be far better placed to operate more efficiently and meet evolving client expectations.”
PRACTICAL UNDERSTANDING
Ian Quayle (main picture) adds: “There is a growing recognition across the profession that digital conveyancing is no longer just optional.
“This webinar is designed to give practitioners a clear, practical understanding of what is changing and what they need to do in response.”
The transition to QES is expected to have implications across the wider property market, including conveyancers, solicitors, lenders and technology providers. Supporters argue that digital execution can reduce delays, improve security and create a more streamlined property transaction process.
As adoption increases, firms that have yet to begin their digital conveyancing journey may find themselves under growing pressure to modernise processes and align with evolving industry standards.
FULL DETAILS
Webinar: “The End of Wet Signatures in 2026 – The UK’s Shift to QES”
Date: Wednesday 1st July
Time: 10:45am
Hosted by: Ian Quayle & Veyco Team
Register HERE
