The conveyancing process can feel like a lengthy process when you’re in it.
Generally, from the offer stage to completion, the conveyancing process can take six to twelve weeks. That said, this can vary significantly on a case-by-case basis, as significant delays in the conveyancing process can occur for a variety of reasons.
If you’re a cash buyer, you’ll generally be able to complete the process more quickly than if you are buying a house with a mortgage. This is because the mortgage application process can lengthen the overall process.
To avoid unnecessary delays, you should seek advice from and instruct a reputable conveyancing solicitor as soon as possible when you start the house buying or selling process.
What Can Delay The Conveyancing Process?
While the conveyancing process is often expected to follow a straightforward timeline, in practice, it can be affected by a range of legal, administrative, and practical factors.
Delays are not uncommon and can arise at various stages of a transaction, sometimes outside the immediate control of the parties involved.
Understanding the most common causes of delays in conveyancing can help buyers and sellers anticipate potential issues, manage expectations and take proactive steps where possible.
Below, we outline the key factors that may extend the timeframe of a conveyancing transaction and explain how they can impact progress towards exchange and completion.
1. Problems Revealed By A Building Survey
A factor that can delay the conveyancing process is the discovery of problems revealed by a building survey.
Building surveys are highly recommended even if you’re a cash buyer, as they’re designed to reveal any potential problems with the property.
These problems can range from uncovering damp to electrical issues to subsidence.
Depending on the severity of the problems highlighted by a building survey, these issues can significantly impact the conveyancing process and undoubtedly cause delays.
2. A Probate Sale
Another factor that can delay the conveyancing process is whether the property in question is a probate sale.
A probate sale occurs when a person dies and requires an executor to be appointed to administer their estate.
If a Grant of Probate is required, it is not possible to sell a house before probate has been granted because you won’t have the legal authorisation to sell a property beforehand.
As the probate process can be complex and rife with complications, buying a probate property is inherently riskier than buying a traditional property, and delays are common.
3. Delayed Property Searches
Another common issue in the conveyancing process is delayed property searches.
If you’re buying a property with a mortgage, your conveyancing solicitor must carry out property searches.
If you’re a cash buyer, it’s your choice to decide whether you want local searches carried out, although it is strongly recommended.
Delayed property searches generally occur when the local authority is slow to reply. Delays in receiving the search results can thus impact the length of the conveyancing process.
4. Problems With The Buyer’s Mortgage Application
Problems with the buyer’s mortgage application can also delay the conveyancing process.
There are several common issues in mortgage applications. These problems can range from applying for unrealistic mortgages to getting your income wrong.
Problems with a mortgage application can result in delays at best and rejections at worst, so they must be filled in accurately.
This will help to minimise the risk of a mortgage application being delayed or rejected.
5. Missing Information From The Seller
A significant reason for delays in the conveyancing process is missing information from the seller.
Missing information can include the TA6 Property Information form, which a seller should complete to provide the buyer with important information about the property.
When you’re selling a property, your legal representative will ask you to complete the TA6 form or the TA7 form if you’re selling a leasehold property.
If important information is missing, it can delay the conveyancing process.
6. A Seller Buying A New Build Property That’s Not Ready
Lastly, delays can occur if a seller is buying a new-build property that’s not yet ready.
Buying off-plan means buying a property that is yet to be built, and while new build properties are what many people dream of, there’s always a risk of delays.
As mortgage offers typically last three to six months, depending on the lender, delays can cause a range of issues and even require you to reapply.
How We Can Help
The buying and selling process is easier when you have a trusted legal team on your side, with the knowledge and experience to guide you through each step.
At Harding Evans, our experienced property solicitors in Cardiff and Newport are here to help.
Get in touch with a member of our team today to learn how we can assist you.
