Tier 5 GAE Verification Checks

Hi there,

Just curious about something I received today.
I got this email for the Sheffield Office saying:

"I am unable to discuss the specifics of your case, but we do not need any further information from you at this time. We have certain checks we must undertake, and these checks take different lengths of time, especially when we have to liase with other government departments. We continue to work on your application and will contact you once a decision has been made."

Other than document verification checks, what other checks do they undertake that requires liase with other government departments? Would be nice if someone could refer me to a guidance document or somthing like that.

Also I just recalled I had two previous Penalty Charge Notices for driving in the bus lane, both I appealed and were successful. Is this something I needed to declare?