What Are Conveyancing Searches?
What Are Conveyancing Searches?
Conveyancing searches are a crucial part of the conveyancing process. They help to ensure that the property you are buying is in good condition and that there are no outstanding issues that could cause problems in the future.
There are a number of different types of searches that can be carried out, and your conveyancer will advise you on which ones are appropriate for your situation. The most common searches are local authority searches, water authority searches and environmental searches.
Common searches include a local authority search, which will reveal any planning permission applications or outstanding works that may be due to be carried out on the property. There is also a water and drainage search, which will identify any water mains or sewers that run close to the property.
Local authority searches check for planning permission, building regulations and any other issues that may impact the property. Water authority searches check for any issues with the property’s water supply, and environmental searches check for any contamination or flooding risk.
If you are buying a property, it is important to make sure that all the necessary searches are carried out. This will give you peace of mind that the property is in good condition and that there are no hidden surprises that could cause problems down the line.
Are Conveyancing Searches Required?
When buying or selling property, there are a number of legal requirements that must be met in order to ensure the transaction is carried out smoothly. One of these requirements is the completion of conveyancing searches, which are used to uncover any potential issues with the property that could affect the sale.
Are you thinking of buying a property? If so, you may be wondering if you need to get conveyancing searches done.
The simple answer is that it depends on the type of property you’re buying. For example, if you’re buying a freehold property, you won’t need to get searches done as there’s no risk of there being any problems with the property’s title.
However, if you’re buying a leasehold property, it’s generally advisable to get searches done as there may be some issues with the property’s title.
For example, the lease may need to be renewed or there may be outstanding repairs that need to be carried out.
Of course, your conveyancer will be able to advise you on whether or not you need to get searches done, so it’s always best to speak to them before making a decision.
While conveyancing searches are not required by law, they are strongly recommended by solicitors and conveyancers as they can help to avoid any potential problems down the line. If you are considering buying or selling property, it is well worth investing in conveyancing searches to protect your investment.
Check Out:- Why Do Squatters Have Rights?
Types Of Conveyancing Searches Carried Out?
There are many different types of conveyancing searches that can be carried out, and the right type of search will depend on the specific situation. Here are some of the most common types of searches:
1. Local Authority Search
This type of search is carried out with the local authority where the property is located. The aim of this search is to find out if there are any planning permission applications or other disruptions that could affect the property.
2. Water and Drainage Search
This type of search is carried out with the relevant water authority. The aim of this search is to find out if there are any public drains or water mains that cross the property, and if there are any issues with the water supply.
3. Environmental Search
This type of search is carried out to assess any environmental risks that could affect the property. The search will look at factors such as flooding, contamination, and noise pollution.
4. Chancel Repair Search
This type of search is carried out to find out if the property is subject to any Chancel Repair Liability. This is a liability that can be imposed on certain properties, and it means that the owner is responsible for repairing the local church.
5. Land Registry Search
This type of search is carried out to find out the official ownership of the property, and to check if there are any restrictions on the property. This information can be used to help buyers and sellers make informed decisions about a property transaction.
You can carry out a land registry search yourself, or you can instruct a solicitor or conveyancer to do the search for you. If you are doing the search yourself, you will need to go to the Land Registry website and create an account. Once you have an account, you can search the Land Registry records and view the information about the property you are interested in.
Other searches can include:
- Commons registration
- Land charges
- Disadvantage area relief
- Chancel repair liability
- Mining search
How Much Do Conveyancing Searches Cost?
The cost of conveyancing searches will vary depending on the type of searches you need and the area you’re buying in. However, you can expect to pay around £250 for a standard search package.
If you’re looking to save money on conveyancing searches, you can use a search provider that offers a discount for multiple searches. You can also ask your conveyancer if they offer any discounts.
Remember, the cost of conveyancing searches is just one of the many costs you’ll need to factor in when buying a property. Other costs include stamp duty, legal fees and mortgage fees.
So, before you start the conveyancing process, make sure you’re aware of all the costs involved. This will help to ensure that you don’t get any nasty surprises down the line.
Conclusion
When you are buying or selling a property, it is important to have a conveyancing solicitor to handle the legal aspects of the transaction. Conveyancing searches are an important part of the process and can help to uncover any potential problems with the property.
There are a variety of different searches that can be carried out and we have explained you several of them in this article. So, we hope you got the answer of your question What Are Conveyancing Searches?
