Which pre-completion search is used to check bankruptcy status?

• A. Land Registry OS1 search
• B. Local Authority search
• C. Bankruptcy search (K16)
• D. Environmental search

Answer: (C)

The main idea here is that a pre-completion bankruptcy check is used to confirm the insolvency status of the people involved in the transaction. A bankruptcy search targets the Insolvency Register and looks for any bankruptcy orders or petitions against the party, using the K16 form to obtain that information. This matters because if someone connected to the deal is bankrupt, they may not have the legal capacity to convey title or complete the transaction, and there could be implications for the property’s ownership or trust arrangements until the bankruptcy is resolved.

Other searches serve different purposes: an OS1 (title) check focuses on the property’s registration and charges; a Local Authority search looks for planning, building control, and other local issues; and an Environmental search assesses environmental risks. None of these reveal bankruptcy status, so the bankruptcy search is the one that specifically addresses insolvency.