What a conveyancer does
- Checks the title register and plan to confirm who owns the property and what rights affect it.
- Orders local authority, water and drainage, and environmental searches.
- Reviews the contract, the leasehold documents (for flats) and the replies to enquiries.
- Reports to you and your lender, and arranges exchange of contracts and completion.
- Pays Stamp Duty Land Tax (or Land Transaction Tax in Wales) and registers the transfer at HM Land Registry.
Conveyancing costs
Most conveyancing is charged as a fixed fee plus "disbursements", which are third-party costs such as search fees and Land Registry fees, plus VAT. Leasehold and new-build purchases usually cost more because there is more paperwork. SRA-regulated firms must publish price information for residential conveyancing on their websites, so you can compare quotes like for like.
Solicitor or licensed conveyancer?
Both can handle a sale or purchase. Solicitors are regulated by the SRA, and licensed conveyancers by the Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC). A solicitor can also advise on related issues, such as a property owned jointly with a former partner, or a purchase in trust.
Questions to ask a conveyancing solicitor
- Are you on my lender's approved list?
- What does your fixed fee leave out, such as searches, registration fees or a leasehold supplement?
- Who will deal with my file day to day, and how quickly do you answer enquiries?
- What problems do you see most often with properties like this one?
Frequently asked questions
How long does conveyancing take?
A typical purchase takes around 12 to 16 weeks from offer to completion, but chains, leasehold enquiries and mortgage delays can make it longer.
When should I instruct a conveyancing solicitor?
As soon as your offer is accepted, or before you put your home on the market if you are selling. Starting early helps the transaction move faster.
What is the difference between exchange and completion?
At exchange the contract becomes legally binding and you usually pay a deposit. At completion the rest of the money is paid and you get the keys.