Buying a home is an exciting journey and one of the biggest financial commitments you’ll make. To make sure you’re making the right choice, it’s important to understand each step along the way. One key part of this is property searches, which can help you spot any potential issues with the property and give you the peace of mind you need before committing.
In this guide, we’ll take you through what property searches are, what they check for, and why they’re essential in helping you make an informed decision.
Related: What are chattels in property sales? A guide for buyers
What are property searches when buying a house?
Property searches are checks done during the house-buying process, so the property doesn’t have any hidden issues. Typically carried out by your solicitor or conveyancer, these searches can include a variety of checks on the property and the surrounding area. The purpose is to ensure there are no surprises after you’ve committed to the purchase.
What searches are done when you buy a house?
Several different searches are carried out when buying a house. Here are the main ones to be aware of:
- Local authority searches
This search is crucial as it provides details about any planning applications or upcoming developments in the area. It also checks for any restrictions or issues related to the property, such as unpaid local taxes or ongoing disputes.
- Environmental search
An environmental search looks for potential environmental risks, such as flooding, land contamination, or any issues that could affect the property’s safety or future value. This search is particularly important if the property is located near industrial areas or in flood-prone regions.
- Water and drainage search
This search confirms whether the property is connected to the mains water and sewage systems. It also checks for any drainage problems, which could lead to expensive repairs down the line.
Related: A building survey: what is it and why you need one
What do solicitors look for when conducting searches for buyers?
Your solicitor or conveyancer plays an important role in property searches. They’ll look for anything that could affect the property or how you plan to use it. Here’s what they typically check:
- Planning permissions and local authority issues: Solicitors check for any planned developments or changes in the local area that could impact the property’s value or your plans. They also look for any legal issues, such as unpaid taxes or boundary disputes.
- Environmental risks: They check for any risks like flooding, contamination, or land stability issues that could affect the property.
- Water and drainage concerns: It’s important to confirm whether the property is connected to the mains water and sewage systems and whether there are any drainage issues, as these could become costly to fix.
By carrying out these searches, solicitors ensure you’re making a well-informed decision and that there are no unexpected issues with the property.
Related: What is the difference between converyors, solicitors and surviyors?
What’s next after property searches?
Once the property searches are complete, your solicitor will review the results and highlight any concerns. If everything looks clear, you can proceed to the next steps: finalising your mortgage offer, exchanging contracts, and preparing for completion.
However, if any issues come up during the searches, such as potential flooding risks, nearby developments, or local disputes, you’ll have the option to reconsider or negotiate with the seller. Based on the findings, you may choose to renegotiate the price or even walk away if the issues are significant.
Moving forward with confidence
Property searches are an important part of buying a home. They give you the insight you need to spot any potential problems and make sure there are no surprises down the line. Understanding these searches means you can move forward with confidence, knowing you’ve done your homework to protect your investment.
When you’re buying a property, it’s a good idea to ensure your solicitor handles all the necessary property searches. That way, you can be sure you’re making an informed choice and feel more at ease with your decision.
Thinking about buying a home? Contact your local Parkers branch for personalised guidance today.
