Are Searches Necessary in Conveyancing?

Many purchases wonder why searches are needed and whether they can be skipped to save time and to save them money. It is important to know the purposes of the searches being done and the concequences of not having them if that option is available to you.

What are searches and why are they Important?

Searches are checks that are carried out by multiple authorities and these uncover information about the property you are purchasing and the surrounding area. The common searches that are done are the Local Authorirty Search, Environmental search, and a water and drainage search. Searches are important as they reveal issues that may affect the decision you may on whether to continue with your purchase. The searches may flag up planning restrictions, flood risks, subsidence issues, future planning affecting the area around you. Searches can take a few weeks depending on the local authority who are doing the local authority search. Some solicitors will not allow you to skip this part of the conveyancing process however when purchasing cash you may have to option to skip this process. Mortgage lenders usually insist of searches being obtained.

It is important to discuss the searches that will be done as this can depend on the property you are purchasing.

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