Last September we completed a house move in Surrey Quays. We have since encountered a number of issues with the property which we consider were missed in the conveyancing searches. What action can we take? Can you clarify the type of searches that needed to have been ordered as part of conveyancing in Surrey Quays?

It is not clear from the question as what problems have arisen and if they are relate to conveyancing in Surrey Quays. Conveyancing searches and investigations initiated during the buying process are designed to help avoid problems. As part of the process, a seller completes a questionnaire referred to as a Seller’s Property Information Form. If the information is inaccurate, you could possibly take legal action against the vendor for any losses that you have suffered. The survey should have identified any problems with the structure of the property. Assuming a detailed survey was carried out and the issues were not identified, you may have a claim against the surveyor. However, if you did not have a full survey, you may be responsible for fixing any defects that have now been noted. We would always encourage buyers to take every possible step to ensure they are completely aware of the condition of a property before purchase regardless of whether they are buying in Surrey Quays.

Should conveyancers ask for an advanced payment for my conveyancing in Surrey Quays?

If you are buying a property in Surrey Quays your lawyer will ask you place them with monies to cover the the cost of the conveyancing searches. Generally this is needed to cover the fees of the conveyancing searches. If any down payment is as part of the sale price then this will be required shortly ahead of exchange of contracts. The final balance that is due should be transferred shortly before completion.

It has been four months following my purchase conveyancing in Surrey Quays concluded. I have checked the Land Registry site which shows that I paid £200,000 when infact I paid £170,000. Why the discrepancy?

The price paid figure is taken from the application to register the purchase. It is the figure included in the Transfer (the legal deed which transfers the residence from one person to the other) and referred to as the 'consideration' or purchase price. You can report an error in the price paid figure using the LR online form. In most cases errors result from typos so at first glance the figure. Do report it so they can double check and advise.

How does conveyancing in Surrey Quays differ for new build properties?

Most buyers of new build property in Surrey Quays come to us having been asked by the housebuilder to sign contracts and commit to the purchase even before the premises is constructed. This is because builders in Surrey Quays usually buy the site, plan the estate and want to get the plots sold off as they are building the properties. Buyers, therefore, will have to exchange contracts without actually seeing the house they are buying. To reduce the chances of losing the property, buyers should instruct property lawyers as soon as the property is reserved and mortgage applications should be submitted quickly. Due to the fact that it could be several months and even years between exchange of contracts and completion, the mortgage offer may need to be extended. It would be wise to use a lawyer who specialises in new build conveyancing especially if they are used to new build conveyancing in Surrey Quays or who has acted in the same development.

Expecting to sign contracts shortly on a studio apartment in Surrey Quays. Conveyancing solicitors have said that they are sending me a report tomorrow. What should I be looking out for?

Your report on title for your leasehold conveyancing in Surrey Quays should include some of the following:

Who has the liability to repair and maintain the building. It is important for you to know who is liable for the repair and maintenance of every part of the building Rent payments - what is due and when you need to pay, and be on notice if this will change in the future What remedies are open the freeholder should you breach a clause of your lease? The total ownership of the property. This may be the property itself but could also incorporate a attic or basement if relevant. What options are open to you if another leaseholder in the building is in violation of a provision in their lease?

I have had difficulty in trying to purchase the freehold in Surrey Quays. Can this matter be resolved via the Leasehold Valuation Tribunal?

Most definitely. We are happy to put you in touch with a Surrey Quays conveyancing firm who can help.

An example of a Freehold Enfranchisement case for a Surrey Quays premises is 12, 14 & 16 Hull Close in May 2010. the Tribunal determined that the premium payable for the acquisition of the freehold to the subject premises was the sum of £18,300 This case related to 3 flats. The unexpired term was 101.61 years.