What searches should be carried out?

The following searches should be undertaken prior to the purchase of a property whether commercial or residential. A number of other searches may be required depending on the location, type and age of the property.

Your solicitor will use these searches or property searches to find out any information about the property, as well as any local development plans that may affect the property you plan to purchase. 

Local Authority Searches

Local authority searches are made up of two parts; the LLC1 and the CON29. These are normally submitted together with a location plan by the solicitor acting on your behalf.

The local authority searches provide information such as:

• Details of past and proposed planning relating to the property
• Whether the access road is maintained at the public expense
• If the property is a listed building or in a conservation area and/or
• If there are any tree preservation orders in place.

Water & Drainage

This search confirms whether the property has:

• Foul water draining to a public sewer
• Surface water draining to a public sewer
• If the property has mains water supply and/or
• If there is a water main, sewer or drain within the boundaries of the property - please note that this is particularly useful if you are considering extending the property at all.

Environmental

The environmental search will highlight whether there is a possibility the land is contaminated. The search may also cover ground stability issues and flood risk.

Please note: An actual inspection of the property is not carried out; should you have any particular concerns please let us know as we are able to instruct a search which incudes a physical inspection of the property.

Although every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided in this article is accurate and correct, the information provided does not constitute any form of advice, recommendation or opinion. DPM Legal Services Limited accepts no liability for any loss or damage, howsoever caused, as a result of any reliance on any information provided.