Last August we completed a house move in Hook. We have since encountered a number of problems with the property which we believe were missed in the conveyancing searches. Do we have any recourse? Can you clarify the nature of searches that needed to have been ordered as part of conveyancing in Hook?

It is not clear from the question as to the nature of the problems and if they are relate to conveyancing in Hook. Conveyancing searches and due diligence undertaken during the buying process are carried out to help avoid problems. As part of the legal transfer of property, a property owner fills in a questionnaire referred to as a Seller’s Property Information Form. answers provided is incorrect, you may have a misrepresentation claim against the owner 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 Hook.

What is the first thing I need to know about purchase conveyancing in Hook?

You may not hear this from too many lawyers but conveyancing in Hook and elsewhere in England and Wales is often a confrontational experience. In other words, when it comes to conveyancing there exists plenty of opportunity for conflict between you and other parties involved in the legal transfer of property. E.g., the vendor, selling agent and on occasion a lender. Selecting a law firm for your conveyancing in Hook an important selection as your conveyancer is your adviser, and is the SOLE person in the legal process whose interest is to protect your best interests and to keep you safe.

On occasion a third party with a vested interest may try and convince you that it is in your interests to do things their way. For instance, the estate agent may claim to be helping by suggesting your solicitor is dragging his heels. Or your financial adviser may advise you to do take action that is against your conveyancers guidance. You should always trust your lawyer above all other parties when it comes to the legal transfer of property.

I am buying a right to buy a flat in Hook. 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 Hook 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 Hook.

My wife and I are close to exchanging contracts on the sale of our property in Hook and the buyers lawyers are claiming that there is a possibility that the property was constructed land that was not decontaminated. A high street Hook conveyancer would know this is not the case. For the life of me I don't know why the purchasers are using an internet conveyancing firm rather than a conveyancing solicitor in Hook. We have lived in Hook for 4 years we know of no issue. Is it a good idea to contact our local Authority to seek confirmation need.

It sounds as though you may have a conveyancing firm already. Are they able to advise? You must check with your lawyer before you do anything. It is very possible that once the local authority has been informed of a potential issue it cannot be insured against (a bit like being diagnosed with a serious illness and then taking out health insurance to cover that same sickness)

I am contemplating choosing an online conveyancing practitioner ahead of a Hook conveyancing firm. Should I ‘stay local’?

Numerous benefits exist in having the opportunity to visit a local Hook conveyancing solicitor such as

• signing papers and and when necessary
• sometimes being able to speak to someone face-to-face can make a significant difference, particularly for non-standard conveyancing
• the ability to complain if things go pear-shaped

When comparing estimates, look carefully for hidden extras. The majority decent Hook high street solicitors give an all-inclusive price. Often online companies appear to offer low cost fees, yet have burried 'extras' in the small print.