The importance of obtaining and reviewing your property searches

Local authority searches help identify planning and building regulation issues, tree preservation orders, compulsory purchase orders, smoke control orders and other matters that could affect how you use the property or its future value, such as whether the property abuts a public highway or if it is situate on a private road.

Water and drainage searches confirm if and how the property is connected to water and sewerage services and reveal whether public sewers or water mains run within the property boundaries, which could affect future building works and maintenance responsibilities.

Environmental searches highlight risks such as contaminated land, landfill sites, ground stability issues and radon exposure which could affect the property value and, in some cases, create potential liability for owners. This search also assesses the likelihood of flooding from rivers, the sea, surface water, groundwater or reservoirs. Flood risk can significantly affect insurance costs, mortgage lending, future resale prospects, and the overall suitability of the property

Obtaining property searches is a key part of the conveyancing process. The results of these searches must be carefully reviewed to identify any risks, restrictions or liabilities affecting the property and understand whether further investigations are required. A thorough review of the searches can help buyers make informed decisions, avoid unexpected issues after completion and reduce the risks of purchasing a property that may prove difficult to mortgage or sell in the future.

Evelyn Mincuk

Solicitor Apprentice

The importance of obtaining and reviewing your property searches

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