What Does a Conveyancer Check?
Buying or selling property can be a complex and daunting process, filled with legal documents and intricate paperwork. A crucial player in the process of buying and selling a property is a conveyancer. A conveyancer has numerous responsibilities, often involving legal and administrative tasks.
Having a conveyancer by your side is extremely beneficial - for many, buying a home is one of the biggest financial commitments. If it's your first time working with a conveyancer, it might be difficult to understand what their job role entails. To explore what conveyancers check, continue reading.
The Role of a Conveyancer
A conveyancer is a licenced professional who specialises in property law. Their primary role involves acting on behalf of either the buyer or seller of a property, overseeing aspects of property transactions while handling the legal process.
Conveyancers ensure that all legal requirements are met, contracts are drafted correctly, and the interests of their clients are protected. Let's take a look at some of the key responsibilities of a conveyancer:
Title Checks
A crucial task of a conveyancer includes checking the title deeds of the property. This process involves investigating the legal ownership of the property while ensuring that there's no outstanding mortgage. Conveyancers also verify that the seller in question has the legal right to sell the property.
Property Searches
Conveyancers conduct various property searches to uncover any potential issues that could affect the property or its value. Also known as conveyancing searches, they typically include local authority searches and environmental searches, to name a few.
This stage is important for conveyancers and must be completed to ensure the value of the property won't be affected by these issues.
Land Registry Checks
Additionally, conveyancers will check Land Registry records to confirm the ownership of the property at hand while identifying any legal charges or restrictions that could affect the property.
Checking Land Registry records is also crucial to determining whether the seller has the legal right to sell the property and whether the buyer acquires ownership rights.
Reviewing Contracts
Conveyancers review the sale contract and any other legal documents related to the transaction. They do this to ensure they have accurately reflected the correct terms agreed upon by both the buyer and seller. Conveyancers will also advise their clients on any legal implications or risks that are associated with the contract.
Handling Finances
Conveyancers must manage the financial aspects of property transactions efficiently. They deal with transferring funds between the other parties while paying stamp duty land tax (SDLT). A conveyancer will ensure all financial obligations are met following the terms of the contract.
Detailed Checks Conducted by Conveyancers
Conveyancers are here to make the conveyancing process as streamlined as possible. Buying a property should be an exciting time, and conveyancers are here to make the journey stress-free and straightforward.
Although in some cases, it's acceptable to carry out the conveyancing process yourself if a mortgage isn't involved, it's beneficial to work with a conveyancer regardless.
The vast majority of mortgage lenders will encourage you to hire a conveyancer. A conveyancer might be particularly encouraged by a mortgage lender if they're dealing with first-time buyers.
Conveyancers have an array of responsibilities, including performing property searches. There are several other detailed checks that need to be completed by conveyancers, including the following:
Local Authority Search
When conducting a property transaction, conveyancers liaise with local authorities to find out information about various aspects of the property and its surrounding area.
A local authority search reveals planning permission and building regulation information. Local searches also disclose any details regarding proposed developments or road schemes in the local area.
Environmental Search
Environmental searches identify any potential contamination or environmental hazards on or near the property, such as landfill sites or pollution risks. Additionally, conveyancers can complete a mining search if you're buying or selling a home in an affected area.
Water and Drainage Search
A water and drainage search can be completed by reaching out to a local water company; they will confirm the property's connection to the mains water supply and sewerage system, as well as any drainage responsibilities.
Your chosen conveyancer will submit a search application to a local water company. This process helps determine if the area of your home is prone to flood risk.
Do You Need a Conveyancing Solicitor?
Here at Bell Lamb & Joynson, we have a team of trusted conveyancing solicitors. We maintain clear communication with both your mortgage broker and estate agent. Our dedication, experience, and knowledge regarding conveyancing are second to none.
We are experienced in all areas of conveyancing in both England and Wales. We specialise in a plethora of residential transactions, including property sales and purchases, remortgages, and property transfers. We'll be able to help you during your property journey.
We're an award-winning team that cares for our clients. Not only are we dedicated to helping our clients, but we remain on hand at all times throughout the process. We're here to provide detailed information when needed.
No matter whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upsize or downsize from your current home, our conveyancers can help you. You can expect tailored advice, guidance, and support at all times and a fast and efficient service like no other.
We use the latest conveyancing technology, including instant updates and case tracking, through our handy mobile app. Our team will successfully guide you through the process smoothly, reducing stress and worry.
There's no doubt that buying or selling your property will be one of the most daunting financial decisions that you make. We offer great communication and have no issue speaking with your seller's solicitor or conveyancer.
We understand how difficult it can be to find a reliable conveyancer; this is why we're here to offer our expert services. If you'd like to find out more about our conveyancing services, please don't hesitate to contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you soon.