Notaries Practice Rules 2019

The Notaries Practice Rules 2019 came into force on 2 December 2019. They apply to every Notary Public in England and Wales.

These rules were introduced after the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) report in 2016. That report recommended greater openness in the legal sector. As a result, clients now receive clearer information about fees, services, and complaints.

Why the Rules Matter

The purpose of the rules is simple: to help clients make informed choices. They set out what notaries must publish about their work. In addition, they raise professional standards across the sector.

Therefore, when a client uses a notary, they should already know the likely costs, timescales, and protections available.

What Must Be Published

Under the rules, notaries must give clients clear details at the start of each matter. Furthermore, the same information should appear on the notary’s website.

The requirements cover five main areas:

1. Price Information

Clients must see how fees are calculated. For example, costs may depend on the number of documents, urgency, or delivery method.
See: Notary Fees and Payments

2. Service Information

A notary should explain the services offered, including both reserved and other legal activities. In addition, the key steps and estimated timescales must be included.
See: Notary Services

3. Redress Information

Clients should be told about the professional indemnity insurance cover that protects them if something goes wrong.
See: Insurance and Redress

4. Complaints Information

Clients need to know how to raise a complaint. First, your issues should be discussed with the notary. However, if matters remain unresolved, the procedure explains the next steps.
See: Complaints Procedure

5. Regulatory Information

Each notary confirms that they are regulated by the Faculty Office of the Archbishop of Canterbury. This confirms official supervision of the profession.
See: Regulatory Details