I have given 8 weeks notice to my existing landlord and must vacate my rented apartment in Wickford by 10/4/2025. Conveyancing for my house purchase is progressing. Is it possible to complete in six weeks as I wish to avoid having to find short term accommodation?

Generally one should not give notice on a rental until exchange of contracts has taken place. If you have not already done so, speak to your lawyer and urge them to they cajole the sellers side, try to get a realistic time scale from them that everyone will look to achieve

I purchased a freehold residence in Wickford but nevertheless charged rent, why is this and what is this?

It’s unusual for properties in Wickford and has limited impact for conveyancing in Wickford but some freehold properties in England (particularly common in North West England) pay an annual sum known as a Chief Rent or a Rentcharge to a third party who has no other legal interest in the land.

Rentcharge payments are usually between £2.00 and £5.00 per year. Rentcharges have existed for many centuries, but the Rent Charge Act 1977 barred the establishment of new rentcharges from 1977 onwards.

Old rentcharges can now be redeemed by making a one off payment under the Act. Any rentcharges that are still in existence post 2037 will be extinguished.

Yesterday I discovered that there is a flying freehold issue on a property I have offered on last month in what was supposed to be a quick, chain free conveyancing. Wickford is the location of the property. Can you offer any opinion?

Flying freeholds in Wickford are unusual but are more likely to exist in relation to terraced houses. Even though you don't necessarily need a conveyancing solicitor in Wickford you would need to get your solicitor to go through the deeds thoroughly. Your bank may require your conveyancing solicitor to take out an indemnity policy. Some of the more diligent conveyancing solicitors in Wickford may determine that this is not enough and that the deeds be re-written to give you the most up to date legal protection. If so, the next door neighbour also had to sign up to the revised deeds.It is possible that your lender will not accept the situation so the sooner you find out the better. You should also check with your insurance broker as to whether they will insure a flying freehold premises.

I need to find a conveyancing solicitor for some conveyancing in Wickford. I happened to discover a web site which looks to be the ideal offering If there is a chance to get all the legals done via email that would be ideal. Do I need to be concerned? What are the potential pitfalls?

As usual with these online conveyancers you need to read ALL the small print - did you notice the extra charge for dealing with the mortgage?

How do I determine who is the owner of a property in Wickford?

As long as the premises is registered with HM Land Registry, and you have enough information of the location of the property, you should be able to see results from the HMLR of the recorded owner for a fee.