What are the 3 Main Searches When Buying a House?

Conveyancing searches are a crucial part of buying a house. They provide you with essential information on the property you’re purchasing before you commit. This could include flood risks, planning permissions, the local water supply, and more.

What are property searches?

People conduct property searches to gather essential information when buying a home. They ensure there are no hidden problems which could devalue the house or accrue unforeseen expenses. The buyer is responsible for doing their due diligence and having a search conducted on the property.

Property searches are compulsory for buyers with a mortgage. Mortgage lenders need to know about potential risks with the property, as this could affect your ability to repay.

Cash buyers do not need property searches, but it is still strongly recommended that they carry them out. Most properties require a Local Authority Search, a Water and Drainage Search, and an Environmental Search.

Local Authority Search

These searches investigate the local area around the property. This includes information about the roads, boundaries, land ownership, and any planning permissions that authorities have granted nearby.

A local authority search will tell you if you must pay to maintain local infrastructure. It also says if you can develop the property and if any plans will impact your view, noise level, or traffic.

Water and Drainage Search

A water and drainage search checks whether the property connects to the sewer supply. It provides the location of the public sewer and draining pipes, and if it is a metered or ratable water supply.

These searches will tell you if you need permission from the water company for property developments or extensions. Knowing your type of water supply is also important as it will affect your water bills.

Environmental Search

An environmental search assesses the risk of natural disasters at the property location. This includes flooding, landslides, sinkholes, contaminated land, gas hazards, and more.

How long do property searches take?

The nature of the property and the type of search determine how long the property search takes. The conveyancing process tends to range anywhere from a few working days to several weeks. Standard search costs are often a few hundred pounds. Some properties may require or benefit from additional searches, so this will be more expensive.

Thoroughly read and understand the findings of your property searches before deciding to proceed. Otherwise, restrictions, responsibilities, or unforeseen changes may impact you.

At DFA Law, we have a team of expert conveyancing solicitors who can help guide you through the property searching process. For more information, email info@dfalaw.co.uk or call 01604 609560.