What Happens If a Property Chain Breaks?

Each sale and purchase depend on the next one proceeding smoothly so if one part of the chain falls through, it can have a knock-on effect for everyone involved.

A chain can break for various reasons. For example, a buyer might pull out due to a change in circumstances, a mortgage offer could be declined or withdrawn, or a survey may uncover serious issues. When this happens, all the linked transactions above and below the break can be delayed or abort. This can be incredibly frustrating — especially if you’ve already invested time and money into conveyancing, surveys, and mortgage arrangements.

What are the options?

• Wait: Sometimes, the chain can be repaired. Another buyer may be found, or the original issue may be resolved.
• Re-negotiate: If the break was due to something like a survey, parties may renegotiate the price to keep the chain intact.
• Break the chain: If you’re in a strong financial position or have somewhere you can more to temporarily, you might decide to break the chain by moving into temporary accommodation, which allows your sale or purchase to continue independently.