Selling your home is a big step. You might be thinking about valuations, viewings and estate agents. But one thing many people forget is paperwork. Missing or incomplete documents can delay your sale, reduce buyer confidence, or even cause a sale to fall through.
This guide will walk you through every document you need to sell your home in the UK, why it matters and how to get it. Get this right, and you’ll save yourself time, money and stress.
Why Is Paperwork So Important When Selling Your Home?
Solicitors, estate agents and buyers rely on accurate documents to check legal ownership, building work, warranties and the energy efficiency of your property.
If you collect this paperwork before you list your property, you can:
- Avoid last-minute delays
- Increase buyer trust
- Speed up the conveyancing process
- Prevent legal disputes or claims later
1. Proof of Identity
Why it matters:
By law, estate agents and solicitors must check your identity to protect against fraud and money laundering.
What you need:
- Passport or driving licence
- Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement, less than 3 months old)
2. Title Deeds or Land Registry Documents
What they are:
Title deeds confirm you’re the legal owner of the property.
What if you can’t find them?
No problem, your solicitor can download a copy from HM Land Registry for £3–£7. However, if your property is unregistered (around 15% still are), you may need to apply for “first registration.”
3. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
Legal requirement:
You must have a valid EPC before your home is marketed. EPCs last 10 years.
EPC update for 2025:
Domestic energy assessors now collect more detailed evidence, such as window types, insulation, and boiler model numbers. If you’ve made improvements, keep receipts and certificates to update your EPC accurately.
Exceptions:
Listed buildings or homes in conservation areas may not need an EPC.
4. Property Information Forms (TA6 and TA10)
These forms are completed with your solicitor and are essential for every sale.
TA6 – Property Information Form:
Covers boundaries, utilities, planning permissions, disputes, guarantees and more.
TA10 – Fittings and Contents Form:
Details what is included in the sale, for example, curtains, light fittings or appliances.
Leasehold Sellers (TA7):
If your property is leasehold, you’ll also need to complete a TA7 form.
5. Warranties, Guarantees and Certificates
Buyers want reassurance that your home is safe and well maintained.
Common documents include:
- Boiler service records or Gas Safe certificates
- Electrical Installation Certificate (EICR) or Part P Building Regulations approval
- FENSA or CERTASS window certificates
- Damp or subsidence guarantees
- Japanese knotweed treatment certificates
- New build warranty (e.g. NHBC Buildmark)
If you don’t have these, don’t panic. Your solicitor may recommend indemnity insurance instead.
6. Planning Permission and Building Regulation Certificates
If you’ve made any alterations, extensions or conversions, you must show:
- Planning permission documents
- Building Regulation approval and completion certificates
- Listed building consent (if applicable)
- Conservation area consent (if required)
Missing documentation? Buyers can request indemnity insurance or ask for price reductions.
7. Leasehold Documents (If Applicable)
If you’re selling a leasehold property, prepare:
- A copy of your lease
- Details of ground rent and service charges
- Freeholder contact details
- Building insurance policy
- Service charge accounts and planned maintenance schedules
Mortgage lenders often refuse properties with leases under 80 years, consider extending before selling.
8. Other Useful Documents
Depending on your home, you may also need:
- Party wall agreements
- Title indemnity insurance policies
- Asbestos or fire risk assessments
- Flood risk information
- Management plans for invasive species (e.g. Japanese knotweed)
Top Tip: Instruct a Solicitor Early
You don’t need to wait until you accept an offer to hire a solicitor. Instructing one as soon as you decide to sell means:
- They can review your title deeds
- Spot any legal issues early
- Help you gather the correct documents
- Speed up the sale once you find a buyer
Be Prepared and Be Honest
The key to a successful sale is transparency. Don’t hide defects, disputes or missing paperwork, buyers will find out during surveys or searches. Being upfront stops delays and builds trust.
Need Help Getting Your Documents Ready?
At PLS, we specialise in helping homeowners prepare everything they need for a stress-free sale.
Get in touch today and we’ll guide you step-by-step, no jargon, just clear advice.
