Conveyancing searches - What Are Conveyancing Searches?

Conveyancing Searches: What Are Conveyancing Searches?

When buying a property, conveyancing searches, also known as property searches, are essential steps conducted by your conveyancer. These searches involve gathering information from various local authorities to provide crucial insights about the property and the land it’s situated on. Let’s explore what conveyancing searches are, why they’re important, and what types of searches may be involved in a property transaction.

Why Are Conveyancing Searches Important?

Conveyancing searches are designed to protect you as a buyer. They help you make an informed decision, ensuring you’re aware of any potential issues that might impact the property's value, legality, or safety. With thorough searches, you can avoid unpleasant surprises after the purchase, such as land contamination risks, flooding dangers, or legal restrictions.

Types of Conveyancing Searches

There are various types of property searches, some required universally, while others are location- or property-specific. Here are the primary conveyancing searches you’re likely to encounter:

1. Environmental Search

An environmental search reveals whether the property is built on or near contaminated land or water and assesses risks like landslips or flooding. This search is crucial in determining the property's environmental safety.

2. Local Authority Search

This search compiles information from the local council, offering a comprehensive view of the property, any restrictions, and details about the surrounding area. It includes a water and drainage search, which verifies water sources and checks for any public drains running through the land.

3. Land Registry Search

A land registry search confirms legal ownership of the property and reveals any outstanding mortgages, property boundaries, rights of way, or restrictions that might apply.

Additional Conveyancing Searches

Depending on the property's location and history, additional searches may be recommended by your conveyancer:

Mining Search

Checks for any past mining activity on the property, which could increase the risk of subsidence.

Flood Search

Especially crucial in flood-prone areas, this search assesses flooding risks to the property.

Chancel Liability Search

This search reveals if you might be liable to cover the costs of repairs for a local medieval church. If liability exists, indemnity insurance can be taken to cover potential future costs.

Planning Search

Provides information on any nearby planning applications or developments that could affect the property’s future value or environment.

Cost of Conveyancing Searches

The cost of conveyancing searches varies, typically ranging between £250 and £450. A standard search pack (which includes local authority, environmental, and water and drainage searches) usually costs around £295. Additional searches are charged separately.

How Long Do Conveyancing Searches Take?

Turnaround times for searches can vary widely, from 48 hours to several weeks, depending on the local authority’s process. Some councils operate online, speeding up the process, while others may still handle searches offline. Your conveyancer can give you an estimate based on your location.

What Happens After Searches Are Completed?

Once all searches are returned, your conveyancer will review them, noting any red flags or issues. If concerns arise, they’ll discuss them with you and may raise inquiries with the seller’s solicitor. Based on the results, you might choose to proceed, negotiate, or even withdraw your offer.

Are Conveyancing Searches Mandatory?

For buyers with a mortgage, conveyancing searches are typically mandatory, as lenders require them to protect their investment. Mortgage lenders dictate which searches must be conducted before they release funds for the purchase.

If you’re a cash buyer, you’re not legally required to conduct most searches, though it’s still strongly recommended. Searches can reveal critical details, such as contamination risks, non-compliance with planning regulations, or limited water supply access—all factors that could impact your property’s future value or livability.

Frequently Asked Questions About Conveyancing Searches

Who Pays for Conveyancing Searches?

The buyer is responsible for the cost of conveyancing searches.

How Long Are Conveyancing Searches Valid?

Typically, search results are valid for six months. If purchasing with a mortgage, lenders often require searches to be up-to-date at the time of completion.

Can Conveyancing Searches Be Fast-Tracked?

In most cases, conveyancing searches cannot be fast-tracked. However, some local authorities offer expedited services for an additional fee. Your conveyancer can advise if this is available in your area.

Conveyancing searches are a vital part of the home-buying process, providing peace of mind and protecting your investment. By understanding what they entail and why they matter, you can navigate your property purchase with confidence.