I am in the market for a reasonably priced conveyancer. Should I go for for an internet conveyancer or a local Westminster conveyancing solicitor?
Westminster is a unique place, where local know-how helps. The laid-back lifestyle is great – just not when it comes to your conveyancing. The solicitors that we endorse possess vast Westminster know how with a proactive, hands-onattitude that helps everything runs smoothly. It is a definite plus that they benefit from established relationships with mortgage brokers, estate agents, surveyors and counterpart Westminster conveyancing practitioners
All was ready to move into my new home in Westminster next Tuesday. I have now been asked to send a copy of my building insurance schedule by my solicitor as he says that he has to check this in his capacity as lawyer for the mortgage company. What does the insurance need to cover?
All property lawyers on acting for banks would need to check that the following risks are covered fire; lightning; aircraft; explosion; earthquake; storm; flood; escape of water or oil; riot; malicious damage; theft or attempted theft; falling trees and branches and aerials; subsidence; heave;landslip;collision;accidental damage to underground services;professional fees, demolition and site clearance costs; and public liability to anyone else. There are some other issues such as the level of excess that are set out in a lender’s Part 2 instructions. These requirements are not unique to conveyancing in Westminster.
Will my conveyancing lawyers need to check that the building insurance for my purchase of a house in Westminster. My lender is Tesco Bank
Tesco Bank have specific requirements as set out in the UK Finance Lenders’ Handbook. As of 8/10/2025, the requirements read as follows :
We are due to move property in January. Will my conveyancing solicitor update the removal company on the completion day. Incidentally, can you put forward a removal company in Westminster. Conveyancing solicitor was chosen prior to coming across this website.
On the afternoon of completion you can collect the house keys from the estate agent but this should only happen once the sellers conveyancers inform the agent that they have the completion monies and the keys can be handed over. You will need to advise the removal men that you are ready to move in. We do not recommend a specific removal company but can help you choose a residential property solicitor in Westminster or a firm with expertise in conveyancing in Westminster.
My wife and I buying a 4 bedroom semi-detached house in Westminster. Our aim is to convert the garage to an office at the property.Will legal due diligence on the property involve checks to determine if these alterations are allowed?
Your solicitor should check the deeds as conveyancing in Westminster will sometimes identify restrictions in the title deeds which prevent certain changes or require the permission of another owner. Some works need local authority planning consent and approval in accordance building regulations. Many locations are designated conservation areas and special planning restrictions apply which often prevent or affect extensions. You should check these things with a surveyor before you commit yourself to a purchase.
How can we know in advance if a Westminster conveyancing solicitor on the Co-operative panel is any good?
When it comes to conveyancing in Westminster obtaining recommendations is a sensible starting point. Before you go ahead, check if they offer a no sale no fee offer. Also, you often get what you pay for - a firm which quotes more, will often provide a better service than one advertising the lowest fees. We would always suggest that you speak with the solicitor conducting your conveyancing.
I have been on the look out for a flat up to £195,000 and found one near me in Westminster I like with a park and transport links nearby, the downside is that it only has 61 remaining years left on the lease. I can't really find anything else in Westminster in this price bracket, so just wondered if I would be making a mistake acquiring a lease with such few years left?
If you need a mortgage the remaining unexpired lease term may be an issue. Discount the offer by the expected lease extension will cost if it has not already been discounted. If the current owner has owned the premises for a minimum of 2 years you can ask them to start the process of the extension and pass it to you. An additional ninety years can be extended on to the current lease term with a zero ground rent applied. You should speak to your conveyancing solicitor concerning this matter.