What searches are carried out when I buy a property?

EdwardHandsandLewis
August 6, 2013

Kulzinder Garcha from Edward Hands and Lewis

It is important when purchasing a property that certain searches are carried out prior to the exchange of contract as there may be some important information or expensive charges linked to the property that aren’t previously known.

Local Land Charges Search

The local authority is required to keep a publicly accessible register of entries which can include planning permission which has been granted, financial charges and any restrictions on permitted development.

Local Authority Search

The local authority keeps more information about the property and the local area than will be contained on in the Local Land Charges Register. The information will not just help to build up a better picture of the property that is being bought but will also include details of any planned local authority works which could affect the property and any planning permissions made; including those refused and withdrawn. Once the property has been purchased the buyer would be bound by any matters that the search revealed.

Drainage Search

A drainage search is not always required but is generally very useful as it will confirm who the sewers, drains and pipes are maintained by, whether the property is connected to the public water supply and whether there are any water mains located within the property’s boundaries. The search is important as it allows the buyer to in advance if there are any restrictions on the properties future developments by the location of the water main and also to know who is liable for the bill of maintenance works.

Environmental Search

Local authorities are now required to identify areas of land which may be contaminated as the liability and cost of cleaning up contaminated land may fall to the owner of the property. The search will reveal the lands previous uses which can help to establish any potential contamination issues and allow potential buyers to be advised of any potential liabilities. The search can also inform the purchaser if the property is in an area affected by landslip, flood or subsidence.

Chancel Check Report

Usually the cost any repairs which need to be undertaken on a church will be met by the church, however in some areas these repairs are not met by the church and are instead met by local property owners. To identify whether a property would be liable to this chancel repair it is possible to check the Chancel Check Report.

Find out more from Edward Hands and Lewis here

Bio
Twitter
Facebook
LinkedIn
Latest Posts

EdwardHandsandLewis

www.ehlsolicitors.co.uk Edward Hands & Lewis is a firm that has evolved over time with a commitment to its core values. We have never forgotten that we are here because of our clients who have supported us over many years. We are proud to be at the heart of the communities in which we serve and we are equally proud of the team that we have to provide such service. We aim to provide value for money with a commitment to good, clear and concise advice. We take the time to ensure that our advice and assistance matches your goals. Unlike many professional services organisations, brevity and helpfulness are our watchwords. The agile and creative minds of the people we employ equip them to advise the same client on a diverse range of matters. This multi-specialism makes our lawyers and advisors expert on a range of the legal and other issues affecting their clients’ business. The strength and depth of our client relationships avoids wasted time and cost: it enables us to keep up to speed on business and sectoral developments and there is no need to field large teams of experts as a matter of course. While we have been established for many years, we pride ourselves on forward-thinking and believe we have achieved the right blend between traditional and modern. Whether you are an existing client of ours, are about to become a client or are looking to join us, we sincerely hope that your experience is a positive one.