What is a “Declaration of Identity” when Buying a House in Ireland.

Image: A Declaration or Certificate of Identity is an important sworn document for maps.

When you are buying a house or land in Ireland it is important that the physical boundaries and Land Registry Maps match. This check can be done by hiring a registered Engineer, Architect or Property Surveyor to check the boundaries. But what is a “Declaration of Identity”?

A Declaration of Identity is a sworn legal document or statement that is prepared by a qualified professional, such as an Engineer, Surveyor or Architect. The document usually states that the physical boundaries of the site match the boundaries on the Land Registry Map or Folio. It can also be used in cases where new maps are prepared for First Registration or Transfer.

The document is usually Sworn and Signed by the Engineer, Architect or Surveyor on front of a Commissioner for Oaths or a Solicitor. This Declaration of Identity is put with the title deeds of the property and used to verify that the site boundaries and maps are correct.

A Declaration of Identity can also be issued as a “Certificate of Identity”, especially if the Engineer/Architect or Surveyor is known to the Solicitor acting for the Client.

Some Declarations of Identity will go further and clarify the Road Access, Water and Services that are serving the property. So, as you can see, it is an important conveyancing document that is necessary to identify maps and boundaries in Ireland and in Galway / Mayo.