Why Do I Need Searches From My Local Conveyancing Solicitor?

Buying a property will probably be the largest purchase you’ll ever make, so it makes sense to know exactly what you’re getting for your money. The property searches carried out by your local conveyancing solicitor provide you with essential details about the home you’re thinking of buying, so there’s no nasty surprises in store in the future.

Are property searches compulsory?

Property searches are a compulsory part of the conveyancing process if you’re buying a home with a mortgage, but optional if you’re buying with cash. However, you should never cut costs by side-stepping your searches. Even if you don’t have to have searches done, here at Holdens Law, we strongly advise that you do so, for your own peace of mind and protection.

What searches do I need?

The type of searches you need will depend on where your property is located, and some homes will need more searches than others. There are a number of searches that your local conveyancing solicitor will provide for all properties, including:

• Local authority search – this covers planning issues that affect both the property (including any planning permissions and building regulations for works carried out or planned at the property). This includes issues such as local development plans, new road and rail projects which may impact the future value and enjoyment of your home. It also checks whether your home is a listed building or in a conservation area and whether there are any financial land charges registered which should be repaid by the seller on or before completion. Land charges run with the property so if financial land charges are not repaid, they would become your responsibility as the new homeowner.

• Environmental search – this looks at potential risks to your property, including flooding, landslides and subsidence. If appropriate, this search will also include radon gas risks and potential contamination. A coal mining search may be recommended by this search if subsidence or ground stability issues are identified, and this is more likely in certain areas of the Country.  

• Water and drainage search – this search checks whether your property is connected to mains water and drainage, and if so, where those connections lie. It will highlight if a main sewer or mains water pipe runs through your property and whether this will affect any future plans to extend your home.

• Chancel repair search – under ancient laws, some properties have a legal obligation to contribute towards the cost of church repairs in their parish. This can be expensive, and if it applies to your home, you’ll be advised to take out insurance to cover the costs.

What other searches may be required?

By using a local conveyancing solicitor, such as Holdens Law, you’ll benefit from an in-depth understanding and knowledge of the local area. This means we can advise you on any other searches that we feel are appropriate. 

For example, a mining search is commonly recommended in parts of Lancashire to check for potential subsidence issues. Flood searches are recommended in areas that have been prone to flooding problems in the past. If your home borders a village green or common land, we may recommend a common search to establish what rights and restrictions this may involve.

How long do searches take?

The speed of your searches depends on how quickly your solicitor makes the requests and how fast the public bodies respond. As your local conveyancing solicitor, Holdens Law will always work as quickly as possible to get your searches underway. We also have excellent working relationships with local authorities, and if the local authority in which you are purchasing offers this service, we use these to expedite the process (and keep up the momentum on your purchase. 

To speed up the homebuying process, Holdens recommend that you order your searches as soon as the title documentation has been checked by your conveyancing solicitor. Once completed, your searches will remain valid for six months. 

What do property searches cost?

The cost of searches ranges from a few pounds for a title search to £100 or more for local authority searches and specialist searches. You’ll find a full list of property search costs on our website. Unlike other conveyancing charges, which are not due until completion, you’ll need to pay for searches in advance, and you should allow for this in your moving plans.

Your local conveyancing solicitor, Holdens Law, offers highly competitive packages that include assessing what searches are required, arranging these searches, and providing expert advice to help you interpret them. Our friendly, professional team will ensure that you understand exactly what your searches mean and any implications they have for your future home.

To find out more about local conveyancing solicitors Holdens Law and how we can help you move to your next home as smoothly and swiftly as possible, get in touch today.