Severing a Joint Tenancy is a straightforward legal process that allows you to change the way your property is owned. Once severed, you and the other co-owners will own the property as Tenants in Common, meaning each owner holds a defined share, which can be dealt with independently.

Here’s a breakdown of the key steps and approximate timeframes:

1. Preparing the Notice of Severance
   The first step is to prepare a Notice of Severance. This document formally states your intention to sever the joint tenancy. You can either draft the notice yourself using a template or instruct a solicitor to prepare it for you.
   Timeframe: This step typically takes 1-2 days, depending on whether you are preparing it yourself or seeking legal assistance.

2. Serving the Notice of Severance
   The notice must then be served to the other joint tenant(s). This can be done by hand or by sending it to their last known address. If serving by post, it is recommended to use recorded delivery to ensure there’s a traceable receipt.
   Timeframe: Delivery by post usually takes 2-5 days, depending on postal services. Hand delivery is immediate.

3. Applying for a Form A Restriction
   Once the notice has been served, you can apply to HM Land Registry to place a Form A Restriction on the property title. This step ensures that the severance is legally recognized and prevents the property from being sold or transferred without the consent of all owners. You’ll need to complete Form RX1 and submit it to the Land Registry.
   Timeframe: Completing and submitting the form typically takes 1-2 days. Processing by the Land Registry can take 2-4 weeks, depending on their current workload.

4. Registering the Severance with HM Land Registry
   The final step is to register the severance with HM Land Registry. You will need to send the Notice of Severance along with the completed Form RX1. The Land Registry will then update the property title to reflect the new ownership structure.
   Timeframe: Processing this change at the Land Registry usually takes 2-4 weeks. You will receive confirmation once the severance has been registered.