Property law: Frequently Asked Questions

Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership from one person to another. It involves a series of complex steps including contract drafting, property searches, exchange of contracts, and completion. Our team ensures this process is smooth, efficient, and legally compliant, protecting your interests whether you are buying or selling.

The duration of the conveyancing process can vary significantly, typically ranging from 8 to 12 weeks. However, it can be shorter or longer depending on factors such as the complexity of the chain, the responsiveness of parties involved, mortgage approvals, and survey results. We strive to keep you informed and expedite the process wherever possible.

Beyond the property price, costs include Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT), legal fees (conveyancing fees), disbursements (e.g., search fees, Land Registry fees), valuation fees, and potentially mortgage arrangement fees. We provide a clear breakdown of all anticipated costs upfront, ensuring full transparency with no hidden surprises.

Freehold means you own the property and the land it stands on indefinitely. Leasehold means you own the property for a fixed period (the lease term), but not the land. The land is owned by a freeholder (landlord), to whom you pay ground rent and service charges. Leasehold properties are common for flats, while houses are typically freehold.

Yes, leaseholders generally have a statutory right to extend their lease by 90 years (for flats) or 50 years (for houses) once certain conditions are met, such as having owned the property for at least two years. We can guide you through the formal process, including valuation and negotiation with the freeholder, to secure your lease extension.

Tenants in the UK have various rights, including the right to live in a safe and habitable property, protection from unfair eviction, the right to have repairs carried out, and the right to quiet enjoyment of the property. Your specific rights depend on your tenancy agreement and the type of tenancy. We can advise on landlord-tenant disputes and ensure your rights are upheld.

Our distinctiveness lies in our unwavering commitment to ethical practice and client-centric service. We combine deep legal expertise with transparent communication, ensuring you always receive honest, clear, and reliable advice. We leverage digital efficiency to streamline processes, making property law accessible and stress-free for our clients.

We prioritise clear, regular, and proactive communication. We use a combination of secure digital platforms, email, and phone calls to keep you informed at every stage. Our aim is to demystify legal jargon and ensure you fully understand the progress and implications of your case, always being available for your questions.

Absolutely. Our expertise extends to a full range of commercial property services, including buying, selling, leasing, and developing commercial real estate. We understand the unique complexities of business property and provide tailored legal strategies to support your commercial objectives, from small business premises to large-scale developments.

We offer expert assistance in resolving a variety of property disputes. This includes boundary disagreements, landlord-tenant conflicts, issues arising from property development, and disputes over easements or rights of way. We aim for amicable resolutions through negotiation or mediation, but are fully prepared to represent your interests in court if necessary.