What is Property Search?

Full Definition

In conveyancing, a property search is a set of enquiries your solicitor or conveyancer makes to reveal information about a property that the seller may not disclose and that is not obvious from a viewing. The main types include the local authority search (covering planning permissions, building regulations, road schemes and nearby developments), a drainage and water search, and an environmental search assessing flood risk, contamination and ground stability. Depending on location, additional searches may cover mining, chancel repair liability or radon. Mortgage lenders usually require searches before releasing funds, and they protect buyers from costly surprises such as a planned bypass or restricted access. Searches are typically ordered shortly after an offer is accepted and can take a few weeks, sometimes longer for slower local authorities. The results inform whether to proceed, renegotiate or withdraw. The term "property search" can also refer to the earlier process of finding a home to buy, but in legal contexts it means these pre-purchase enquiries.

Related Calculators

See Also