Conveyancing

Explanation of Searches and other Legal terms

Office Copies of the Title

The seller is obliged to provide these to the buyers Solicitor. These are obtained from the Land Registry.

Local Authority Search

This is a search which is sent to the local council. It reveals whether there are any Charges or Orders registered against your property by the Local Authority which may affect you after your purchase. It also provides information regarding planning consents granted and council maintenance of roads and services which may affect you.

Drainage and Water

This search is sent to the Local Water Authority and will confirm whether the property is connected to mains drainage.

Telegraphic Transfer Fee

This is charged by Banks for transferring money electronically.

Final Searches

These are searches made immediately before the completion date in the Land Registry and the Land Charges Department to check that nothing has been registered.

Chancel Check

A report that identifies whether or not a property is located within the boundaries of an historical parish which has a continuing potential to charge for Chancel repair liability.

Land Registry Fee

The Land Registry is a government department which looks after the register of all registered properties in England and Wales. It charges a fee for transferring the register to the new owner. A charge is levied according to the property price.

Stamp Duty Land Tax

SDLT is a tax on transactions relating to UK land and buildings. A percentage is charged according to the property price.

Coal Mining Search

This search will be necessary if your property has been built in an area where there has previously been mining activity. It will reveal whether mining issues affect the property.

Home Information Pack (HIP)

A pack provided by sellers which contains information to the buyers about the property.  It contains details of the title to the property, local and water searches, details of the leasehold (if applicable) and an energy certificate.

Contact us for a consultation or follow the links for more information.