Let's say if one was interested in a particular plot of land is there a way of tracking down the owner? Via the land office or tessabahn for example?

I presume even if it is, another issue might be the address or reference numbers for the property. I think house numbers are usually allocated once a buiding has been errected and a tabien baan issued??

would rather not door knock the neighbours. any ideas greatly appreciated..

Start with the local Pu Yai.

If you can get the chanote number of a neighbouring plot the land office can help

You, if you are a Farang, a China person, or Japanese. you cannot own land in Thailand. It's the law.

Thanks for the replies guys. PP, was able to get hold of some neigbouring chanote info so after a trip to the Land Office this morning we are in business. Many thanks.