Buying your first home is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. One part of the conveyancing process that often confuses first-time buyers is property searches. At PLS Solicitors, we believe in making the process simple and transparent. This guide explains what searches are, why they matter, and how we support you through them.
What Are Property Searches?
Property searches are legal checks carried out by your solicitor or conveyancer after your offer is accepted. They provide vital information about the property and its surrounding area.
Think of them as a background check on your future home. Searches highlight potential issues that could affect the property’s value, your ability to legally own it, or your enjoyment of living there.
Why Are Property Searches Important?
Skipping searches is a bit like buying a car without looking at its service history. Everything might look fine on the surface, but hidden problems could cost you later.
Searches can reveal:
- Flood risks
- Planning permissions for nearby developments
- Legal restrictions on the property
- Contaminated land or ground stability issues
Most importantly, your mortgage lender will also require searches before approving your loan. In other words, they protect both you and your investment.
The Main Types of Property Searches
While exact searches vary depending on the property and location, the most common ones include:
1. Local Authority Search
Checks planning permissions, building regulations, and future developments in the area.
Example: finding out about a planned road before it appears at the end of your garden.
2. Environmental Search
Assesses risks such as flooding, land contamination, and ground movement (subsidence).
Example: identifying if the property was built on previously industrial land.
3. Water and Drainage Search
Confirms the property is connected to mains water and drainage. It also shows whether public drains run through the land, which could affect extensions or building work.
4. Land Registry Search
Confirms the seller is the legal owner and checks for rights of way, covenants, or mortgages against the property.
5. Special Searches
In some areas, extra searches may be required, for example, coal mining searches in parts of the UK. Your solicitor will advise if these are needed.
How Long Do Property Searches Take?
Timescales vary depending on the type of search and the local authority’s workload. Some results arrive within days, while others may take several weeks.
Top tip: instructing your solicitor as soon as your offer is accepted can help avoid unnecessary delays. At PLS Solicitors, we use digital systems to streamline requests and keep the process moving.
How Much Do Property Searches Cost?
The cost of property searches usually ranges between £250 and £500. While this may feel like an extra expense, it’s a small price compared to the potential cost of unexpected repairs or legal disputes.
Think of searches as a form of insurance, investing a little now to save a lot later.
Can You Skip Property Searches?
Cash buyers can technically skip searches, but doing so is risky. Unless you know the property and area extremely well, skipping searches can lead to expensive surprises.
For mortgage buyers, searches are not optional. Lenders insist on them to safeguard their investment.
Common Issues Uncovered by Searches
Searches are designed to protect you. Some of the issues they may reveal include:
- A proposed housing development nearby
- A history of flooding in the area
- Unapproved building works
- Public footpaths crossing private land
Knowing about these issues early means you can renegotiate, ask for repairs, or even walk away before it’s too late.
How PLS Solicitors Support You
At PLS Solicitors, we guide first-time buyers through every stage of their journey. With property searches, that means:
- Ordering the right searches promptly
- Explaining the results clearly in plain English
- Advising on the next steps if issues are found
- Helping you make informed decisions about your purchase
We believe in keeping the process simple, transparent, and stress-free.
Property searches may take time and cost money, but they are a vital part of buying a home. They protect your finances, safeguard your mortgage, and ensure there are no hidden surprises waiting for you.
At PLS Solicitors, we’re here to make sure your first home purchase is as smooth and safe as possible.
Ready to take the next step? Contact our team today to discuss your home-buying journey.
