Practicalities of Keeping Your Conveyancing Moving

5 June, 2025 3 minutes reading time

Moving home is often cited as one of life’s most stressful events, and a significant part of that stress can arise from the conveyancing process. While your lawyer plays a crucial role in navigating the legal complexities, there are practical steps you, as the client, can take to help ensure things keep moving forward.

Everyone wants their move to be as seamless as possible. Proactive communication and a collaborative approach are central to a successful and smooth transaction. Here, we examine some sensible and actionable steps that may be helpful.

ONE: Be Prepared from the Outset

One of the most common causes of delay is a lack of readily available information. Taking the time to gather essential documents early can genuinely make a significant difference.

It’s helpful to locate essential documents such as deeds, guarantees for any work carried out on the property (e.g. damp proofing, new windows, or boiler installations), FENSA certificates, and any planning permissions or building control certificates. Additionally, consider your property’s history. Have you had any disputes with neighbours? Are there any informal agreements regarding boundaries or access?

Being open and honest about these details prevents surprises later. If you’re purchasing with a mortgage, having an agreement in principle in place before making an offer shows your readiness and can accelerate the initial stages.

TWO: Communicate Clearly and Promptly

Effective communication underpins a seamless transaction. Although your lawyer will keep you informed, your timely responses are equally important.

Responding promptly to queries is always appreciated. Your legal team will likely send you forms and request information, so completing and returning them as soon as possible is key. If you’re unsure about anything, ask for clarification instead of delaying your response. It’s also crucial to keep your lawyer informed if your circumstances change – for instance, your contact details, financial situation, or if there are updates regarding your mortgage. Notify them immediately.

While it’s natural to feel eager, refrain from unnecessary chasing; excessive contact can sometimes distract the legal team from the task at hand. Trust that they are progressing your case and will reach out when they have an update or need something from you.

THREE: Understand the Process (Without Becoming an Expert)

Having a fundamental understanding of the conveyancing stages can help you appreciate why certain steps take time and when your input is needed.

Your lawyer should provide you with an overview of the conveyancing process; familiarising yourself with the timeline can help manage your expectations. It’s also wise to be patient regarding searches. Local authority, environmental, and water authority searches are a critical part of the process, but their turnaround times are often beyond your lawyer’s direct control.

FOUR: Be Realistic and Flexible

Conveyancing, by its nature, involves multiple parties and can sometimes encounter unforeseen hurdles. Therefore, it’s sensible to expect the unexpected. While we strive for efficiency, issues can arise, such as problems with survey results, chain collapses, or legal queries from the other side. A flexible mindset can help navigate these bumps. Additionally, consider chain length; generally, the longer the property chain, the more complex and potentially slower the transaction. Being aware of this can help you set realistic expectations.

Our Advice

Whether you’re buying or selling a property, being proactive and communicating effectively is essential. Clear and open communication ensures that all parties involved are on the same page, resulting in a smoother and more efficient conveyancing experience.

If you have any questions about the conveyancing process or would like a fixed price quotation from us, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help.

Please note that all views, comments or opinions expressed are for information only and do not constitute and should not be interpreted as being comprehensive or as giving legal advice. No one should seek to rely or act upon, or refrain from acting upon, the views, comments or opinions expressed herein without first obtaining specialist, professional or independent advice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Curtis Parkinson cannot be held liable for any errors, omissions or inaccuracies.

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