Last November we completed a house move in Swanscombe. We have noticed several issues with the house which we consider were omitted in the conveyancing searches. What action can we take? Can you clarify the nature of searches that should have been carried out for conveyancing in Swanscombe?

The question is vague as to the nature of the problems and if they are unique to conveyancing in Swanscombe. Conveyancing searches and investigations undertaken during the legal transfer of property are carried out to help avoid problems. As part of the process, a property owner fills in a questionnaire known as a Seller’s Property Information Form. If the information turns out to be misleading, you could possibly take legal action against the seller 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 Swanscombe.

In what way does my ID and proof of funds have anything to do with my conveyancing in Swanscombe? What am I being asked for?

It is indeed that case that the requirement set out by your lawyer has nothing to do with conveyancing in Swanscombe. However these days you will not be able to proceed with any conveyancing process if you have not providing proof of your identity. This usually takes the form of a either your passport or driving licence and a bank statement. Please note that if you are supplying your driving licence as evidence of ID it must be both the paper element and photo card part, one is not satisfactory in the absence of the other.

Proof of your origin of funds is necessary in accordance with the Money Laundering Regulations. Please do not be offended when you are asked to produce this as your conveyancer must retain this information on record. Your Swanscombe conveyancing practitioner will require evidence of proof of funds before they are able to accept any funds from you into their client account and they may also ask additional questions concerning the origin of monies.

Just had an offer accepted on a new build apartment in Swanscombe. Conveyancing is daunting at the best of times but I have never purchased a new build flat before. What sort of enquires would be asked in new build legal work.

Here is a sample of a selection of leasehold new build questions that you should expect your new-build leasehold conveyancing in Swanscombe

Will the freehold then be transferred for a nominal consideration (not exceeding £100) to the Management Company? Has the Lease plan been approved by the Land Registry and if not when will they be lodged for this purpose? If there are lifts in the building, please confirm that the owners of flats on the ground and basement floors will not be required to contribute towards the cost of maintenance and renewal. Please confirm the Lease plans are architect prepared. The Lease must contain a provision on behalf of the Vendor to pay the service charges in respect of unoccupied units in order to ensure that all services can be provided.

I've recently found out that there is a flying freehold element on a property I put an offer in a fortnight ago in what was supposed to be a simple, chain free conveyancing. Swanscombe is the location of the property. What do you suggest?

Flying freeholds in Swanscombe are not the norm but are more likely to exist in relation to terraced houses. Even though you don't necessarily need a conveyancing solicitor in Swanscombe you must be sure that your lawyer goes through the deeds very carefully. Your lender may require your conveyancing solicitor to take out an indemnity policy. Some of the more diligent conveyancing solicitors in Swanscombe 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 have been sourcing a conveyancing solicitor in Swanscombe for my home move. Is there any facility to review a solicitor's record with the profession’s regulator?

Members of the public can review presented Solicitor Regulator Association (SRA) decisions stemming from inquisitions from 2008 onwards. Visit Check a solicitor's record. To find information Pre 2008, or to check a firm's record, call 0870 606 2555, 08.00 - 18.00 Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and 09.30 - 18.00 Tuesday. For non-uk callers, dial +44 (0)121 329 6800. The regulator could recorded call for training reasons.