Why do I need an ID1 and can a notary sign it?

You may have been asked by your conveyancer or solicitor to complete an ID1 form. This is a form that is used to identify you when you cannot be identified by your solicitor.

Alternatively, you may be dealing with a transaction directly with the HM Land Registry. The form confirms your name, address, previous addresses (if needed) and other information. You sign the form to declare that the statements that you have made are true.

There are additional pages to the form, which are to be completed by the certifier. The certifier can be one of eight options for you to choose from and a notary is one of them. Whoever you opt to do it, they will need to meet you in person, identify you using your original identity documents and proof of address. There is also a photograph of you that needs to be attached, and the certifier will need to sign and date the back of the photograph. It needs to be stapled, not glued to the appropriate section of the document.

If you cannot meet the notary or other certifier in person, you can complete the ID1 form remotely. The certifier completes a separate ID5 form by identifying you on a video call. This could be Microsoft Teams, Zoom or the like, but it does need to be recorded by the certifier and kept in their records.

Additionally, there are also ID2 forms, which are used to identify corporate bodies. They are very similar to ID1 forms, but additional information will be requested by your certifier. Whoever you choose to assist you will need to make sure that you can and are able to sign the form on behalf of the corporate body. This can be done by checking the register at Companies House, trust documents or other verifiable documents produced by the company.

If you need to have an ID1, ID2 and an ID5 form completed, do not hesitate to get in touch.