(i) E-Memorial Form for Lodgement

In July 2009, the Land Registry released an enhanced version of the e-Memorial Form. It has raised the usage rate by about 50% to account for about 45% of the lodgements. With a 2-dimension barcode embedded in the new form, the conventional data entry work by registration staff is significantly reduced. The automation has greatly improved the efficiency and accuracy of updating the land registers.

To make the e-Memorial Form a powerful tool for preparing memorials, we are designing new functions such as bulk input and auto-filling up of address by using Property Reference Number. The enhancements are expected to be available for trial use in the first half of 2011.

(ii) Enriching the Computer Database with Chinese Street Names to Enable Land Search by Chinese Address

When IRIS was implemented in 2005, it inherited a legacy database containing only street name information in English. To enhance its user-friendliness, the Land Registry has been enriching the database with Chinese street names. Searchers can now enjoy the convenience of using Chinese address information for searching land registers.

(iii) Standard Terms Document

The Land Registry will propose amendments to the Land Registration Ordinance, as a consequential amendment under the Land Titles (Amendment) Bill, to enable the deposit of standard terms documents in the Land Registry. The proposed provisions will reduce the bulk of documents presented for registration.

(iv) Inter-departmental Projects

The Land Registry is providing the Rating and Valuation Department with up-to-date address information and land records, and rendering assistance in its data alignment work for implementation of the Property Information Online service.

The concerted inter-departmental efforts have enhanced the transparency of the property market as members of the public can now obtain property information in a more comprehensive and efficient way.