Buying a house can be a daunting experience, and even with the wealth of knowledge from your conveyancer, there are things about a property that can only be revealed through the appropriate searches.
What Are the Main Property Searches?
Three main searches are undertaken for every purchase, and they are as follows:
- Local Authority Search.
- Environmental Search.
- Drainage & Water Search.
Many more specialised searches can be ordered if your prospective property requires it. Examples include Common Land Search or specialist Minerals Searches. The landscape around the property and information provided by the seller will dictate whether these are required.
How Much Do Property Searches Cost?
Aside from stamp duty and legal fees, searches are the next biggest expense when purchasing a property, and the fees vary from Local Authority to Local Authority. It can range from £400 to £700.
When Should I Order My Property Searches?
Given the expense, you must be sure that you wish to proceed with the purchase before searches are ‘put in hand’.
If you begin to have any concerns about the property you are purchasing, please ask your conveyancer to hold off on further legal work until you are certain. We never want to incur additional fees for you if you do not go ahead with the purchase.
What Do the Property Searches Contain?
A Local Authority Search includes all manner of things about the property itself and the area in which it is located. As planning permission and appropriate building regulation sign-off are obtained by the Local Authority, this is the search that will reveal the works done to the property. It will also provide details of whether there are any proposed transport updates in the area or if there are Tree Preservation or Smoke Control Orders, for example.
The Drainage & Water Search will let you know who deals with the water in the area and checks if the property is connected to the drains, as well as whether there are any pipes or drains within your property boundary.
The Environmental Search looks at various things such as flood risk, ground stability, and whether the land is contaminated or not. It will provide an overall environmental ‘score’ for your property now and in the future, alongside detailed information about Climate Change and your property.
What Happens Once Property Searches Are Received?
Once they are received, the searches will be reviewed, and your conveyancer will raise enquiries on your behalf on anything that requires additional information. This can be things such as building works taking place without the requisite sign-off, Tree Preservation Orders, ground instability, or the works being built over a drain or sewer.
Will I Get to See My Property Searches?
You will get a personalised report setting out any of the key points, and the searches will be provided alongside this for a more in-depth view.
Why Property Searches Are Vital
Property searches are a vital part of the conveyancing process, giving you essential insight into both the property itself and the surrounding area. From uncovering planning permissions and drainage connections to highlighting environmental risks, these checks ensure there are no hidden surprises before you commit to your purchase. While they can feel like an extra expense, searches are an important safeguard, helping you make an informed decision with confidence.
At Howell Jones Solicitors, our conveyancing solicitors in Surrey will guide you through each step, explain the results clearly, and raise any necessary enquiries on your behalf—so you can move forward with peace of mind. Get in touch with our Surrey solicitors today for professional guidance and support.
