Need a Property Conveyancer?

Getting a solicitor (or conveyancer) involved in your house sale or purchase is essential because property transactions in the UK (and many other countries) are legally complex and involve significant financial risk. Here’s why it’s necessary:

🔐 1. Legal Protection

• Property transactions involve legally binding contracts. A solicitor ensures that your rights are protected and that the contract terms are fair.
• They check for issues like:
  • Property boundaries
  • Easements or rights of way
  • Planning permissions
  • Any legal restrictions (e.g. listed buildings, leaseholds)

📜 2. Conveyancing Process

• “Conveyancing” is the legal process of transferring property ownership from seller to buyer.
• This includes:
  • Drafting and reviewing contracts
  • Handling Land Registry documentation
  • Managing exchange and completion dates
  • Dealing with the mortgage lender (if applicable)

🕵️‍♂️ 3. Searches and Due Diligence

• Solicitors carry out local authority and environmental searches to uncover hidden issues such as:
  • Upcoming development plans nearby
  • Flood risk
  • Planning constraints
  • Contaminated land

💷 4. Handling Money Safely

• Large sums of money are involved in buying or selling a house.
• A solicitor holds the money in a client account and ensures secure and proper transfer during the transaction.

🏦 5. Mortgage and Lender Requirements

• If you’re using a mortgage, your lender will require you to have a solicitor to protect their interest as well as yours.
• The solicitor will ensure that the lender’s legal conditions are met.

🧾 6. Land Registry and Stamp Duty

• After the sale, the solicitor registers the property with the Land Registry and pays any applicable Stamp Duty Land Tax on your behalf.

🚫 Risks Without a Solicitor:

• You could buy a property with legal or structural issues.
• Contracts might be invalid or unfavourable.
• You may not be properly protected if the deal falls through.

In short: a solicitor ensures the sale or purchase is legally valid, safe, and compliant. It’s not just helpful — it’s usually legally required for a secure and successful transaction.

Let me know if you want a breakdown of solicitor vs licensed conveyancer, or help choosing one.