I am in the market for a low cost conveyancer. Do I opt for a nationwide conveyancer rather than a local Bath conveyancing lawyer?

Existing third party connections are another important factor to consider when appointing conveyancing solicitors. Bath conveyancers benefit from long term relationships with lenders and selling, local authorities, valuers and other law firms meaning the whole process is going to be much smoother for you. Having a well rounded experience in the local area is also a plus .

Should my solicitor be raising questions concerning flooding during the conveyancing in Bath.

Flooding is a growing risk for conveyancers specialising in conveyancing in Bath. Some people will purchase a house in Bath, completely expectant that at some time, it may be flooded. However, aside from the physical destruction, if a house is at risk of flooding, it may be difficult to get a mortgage, suitable building insurance, or dispose of the premises. Steps can be carried out during the course of a house purchase to forewarn the buyer.

Conveyancers are not qualified to impart advice on flood risk, however there are a various searches that may be carried out by the purchaser or on a buyer’s behalf which will give them a better appreciation of the risks in Bath. The conventional set of information supplied to a buyer’s conveyancer (where the solicitors are adopting what is known as the Conveyancing Protocol) includes a standard question of the owner to find out whether the property has historically flooded. If the property has been flooded in past which is not notified by the seller, then a buyer may issue a claim for damages resulting from an misleading response. A purchaser’s solicitors should also order an environmental report. This will disclose whether there is a recorded flood risk. If so, further inquiries should be carried out.

Despite weeks of looking the Title Certificate and documents to our property can not be found. The lawyers who did the conveyancing in Bath 5 years ago no longer exist. What are my options?

Gone are the days when you need to hold title official documentation to establish that you own the land or premises, as the Land Registry have everything they need in a digital format.

My cousin has urged me to appoint his lawyers for conveyancing in Bath. Do I follow his recommendation?

No doubt the best way to select a conveyancing practitioner is to seek referrals from friends or family who have used the solicitor that you are contemplating using.

I am hoping to put an offer on a small detached house that seems to tick a lot of boxes, at a reasonable price which is making it all the more appealing. I have just been informed that it's a leasehold as opposed to freehold. I am assuming that there are particular concerns purchasing a house with a leasehold title in Bath. Conveyancing solicitors have are soon to be appointed. Will they explain the issues?

Most houses in Bath are freehold and not leasehold. This is one of the situations where having a local conveyancer who is familiar with the area who can help the conveyancing process. It is clear that you are purchasing in Bath so you should seriously consider shopping around for a Bath conveyancing solicitor and be sure that they are used to dealing with leasehold houses. First you will need to check the unexpired lease term. Being a lessee you will not be at liberty to do whatever you want with the house. The lease comes with conditions such as obtaining the freeholder’spermission to carry out alterations. You may also be required to pay a contribution towards the upkeep of the estate where the house is part of an estate. Your solicitor should appraise you on the various issues.

Leasehold Conveyancing in Bath - A selection of Queries before buying

How many of the leaseholders are in arrears for their service charge payments? How is the lease structured? What is the yearly maintenance fee and ground rent?