Start with the decision you need to make
Asset tracing is more useful when it has a defined purpose: for example, helping advisers assess a recovery option or checking a disclosed commercial connection. Explain the dispute, transaction or obligation at a high level and who is authorised to instruct the work.
Distinguish the question “what might be connected to this person or entity?” from “what can legally be recovered?”. Ownership, value, equity, control and enforceability are different issues. A list of possible assets does not answer all of them.
Create three separate lists
List what is documented, what has been claimed and what is only a lead. For each entry record the source, date and exact legal name involved. A photograph of an expensive car or use of a prestigious address is not proof of ownership.
Where a company is involved, identify the company number and how it relates to the individual or group. Do not treat the assets of a company as automatically belonging personally to a director. Leave the legal analysis of ownership and recovery to the appropriate adviser.
- Documented: a record you can identify and show.
- Claimed: something stated by a party but not independently confirmed.
- Lead: a possibility that needs checking.
- Unknown: a gap that could materially affect the decision.
Understand what public property records can show
For England and Wales, HM Land Registry provides property information through its official service; other UK jurisdictions use different registers. The type of record matters. An online information copy is not the same as an official copy needed to prove ownership.
A property entry does not by itself tell you the amount of usable equity or whether enforcement would succeed. If a record does not appear under an address, avoid concluding that no property exists. Give your adviser the search details and the uncertainty.
Choose a proportionate next step
A staged enquiry can begin with a clear question and review point before wider work is considered. Ask what the proposed search can establish, which jurisdictions it covers and which material limitations should be expected. Do not assume private bank records are generally available.
Free first step: use the research log to list three existing leads and what each would actually prove if confirmed. PDC can discuss whether those leads support a focused investigation. Include any legal deadline and involve your solicitor where recovery, freezing orders, insolvency or family proceedings are relevant.
Questions you may have
Does finding an asset mean it can be recovered?
No. Ownership, equity, competing interests and legal enforcement are separate questions for the appropriate advisers.
Can public records show every asset?
No. Coverage and available detail vary. Public records can provide leads and facts within their limits, not a complete picture of someone’s wealth.
Sources & further reading
Check the original sources for their latest information and service terms.