The importance of local searches

A regional property expert is reminding residential property buyers and sellers why local searches are so important and given advice to help prevent delays during a transaction.

Nicole Chrisham, solicitor in the Residential Property team at regional law firm Napthens, is reminding that it’s important for the searches to be done as soon as possible as many potential issues can arise from these important reports carried out on behalf of a home buyer.

The local search is usually carried out alongside other searches which can include a flood search, water and drainage search, and an environmental search.

Nicole said: “There are a number of issues that could stop the buying and selling process from running smoothly.

“The local search will confirm, for instance, if there are any financial charges attached to the property from the local authority, or if the property is situated in an area affected by a Smoke Control Order which could mean only certain types of boiler can be used.

“It will also show if a property is a listed building which could restrict future developments, or if a Tree Preservation Order is in place.

“In some cases, lengthy investigations have to be undertaken to ensure that the buyers and their mortgage lenders will be protected, so the local search is an important document.” Buyers should start the searches as quickly as they can, and if any issues are discovered, a legal advisor should raise questions with the seller’s lawyer and look how the issues can be rectified.