Last November we completed a house move in Surbiton. We have noticed several problems with the property which we consider were overlooked in the conveyancing searches. Is there anything we can do? Can you clarify the nature of searches that should have been carried out for conveyancing in Surbiton?
It is not clear from the question as to the nature of the problems and if they are specific to conveyancing in Surbiton. Conveyancing searches and investigations initiated during the legal transfer of property are designed to help avoid problems. As part of the legal transfer of property, a seller answers a document called a SPIF. answers provided is inaccurate, then you may have a claim against the vendor for any losses that you have suffered. The survey should have identified any problems with the structure of the property. Assuming a detailed survey was carried out and the issues were not identified, you may have a claim against the surveyor. However, if you did not have a full survey, you may be responsible for fixing any defects that have now been noted. We would always encourage buyers to take every possible step to ensure they are completely aware of the condition of a property before purchase regardless of whether they are buying in Surbiton.
What does my ID and proof of funds have anything to do with my conveyancing in Surbiton? Is this really warranted?
Surbiton conveyancing solicitors and indeed property lawyers accross the UK have an obligation under money laundering regulations to verify the identity of any client with a view to ensure that clients are who they say they are.
Conveyancing clients will need to produce two forms of certified ID; proof of ID (usually a Passport or Driving Licence) and proof of address (typically a Bank Statement less than 3 months old).
Evidence of the origin of monies is also required in accordance with the money laundering statutes as solicitors have a duty to investigate that the funds you are utilising to purchase a property (be it the exchange deposit or the total purchase amount where you are buying mortgage free) has come from an acceptable source (such as an inheritance) and is not the fruits of illegitimate activity.
I am buying a semi-detached house in Surbiton. Conveyancing solicitors are said to be ‘a necessary evil’ but can I do it myself?
Leaving aside the complexities and merits of DIY conveyancing in Surbiton you will have to appoint a solicitor on your bank's conveyancing panel to look after their interests. Most people therefore find it easier to let the solicitor act for them and the lender. Furthermore there is minimal cost savings to be made in you doing conveyancing for yourself and another lawyer conducting the conveyancing for the lender. Please feel free to use the search tool to find a lawyer on your lender panel in Surbiton.
Various internet forums that I have visited warn that are the primary reason for stalling in Surbiton conveyancing transactions. Is there any truth in this?
The Council of Property Search Organisations (CoPSO) released findings of research by MoveWithUs that conveyancing searches do not feature within the common causes of hindrances in the conveyancing process. Searches are not likely to feature in any slowing down conveyancing in Surbiton.
I am hoping to put an offer on a small detached house that appears to be perfect, at a great price which is making it all the more appealing. I have subsequently discovered that the title is leasehold as opposed to freehold. I am assuming that there are issues purchasing a house with a leasehold title in Surbiton. Conveyancing lawyers have not yet been appointed. Will they explain the issues?
Most houses in Surbiton are freehold rather than leasehold. In this scenario it’s worth having a local conveyancer used to dealing with such properties who can help the conveyancing process. We note that you are buying in Surbiton in which case you should be looking for a Surbiton conveyancing solicitor and check that they have experience in advising on leasehold houses. First you will need to check the number of years remaining. Being a lessee you will not be entirely free to do whatever you want to the property. The lease will likely included provisions such as requiring the landlord’sconsent to conduct changes to the property. It may be necessary to pay a contribution towards the upkeep of the communal areas where the property is located on an estate. Your lawyer will report to you on the legal implications.
Following months of dialogue we are unable to agree with our landlord on how much the lease extension should cost for our flat in Surbiton. Does the Leasehold Valuation Tribunal have jurisdiction to calculate the appropriate figures?
Absolutely. We can put you in touch with a Surbiton conveyancing firm who can help.
An example of a Lease Extension decision for a Surbiton flat is Flat D 15 Claremont Gardens in September 2013. TheTribunal determined in accordance with section48 and Schedule13 of the Leasehold Reform,Housing and Urban Development Act 1993 that the premium for the extended lease should be fourteen thousand one hundred and eighty seven pounds (£14,187.00) This case related to 1 flat.
If instructed can a conveyancer remove a name from the title of my property in Surbiton ?
Extracting or adding someone to the title of your house is relatively straightforward. You’ll need to appoint a lawyer to discuss your legal rights before you can proceed with a transfer of property. Contact us to book a free consultation with one a conveyancing practitioner