Our solicitor has uncovered a a problem with the lease for the property we are buying in Roehampton. The other side have offered defective title insurance as a solution. We are content with insurance and will pay for it. Our conveyancer has advised that he must check that the bank is happy with this solution. Are we the client or is the lender?

The short answer to your last question is that, notwithstanding the risk of a conflict of interest, you and the bank are the client. Your solicitor must comply with the UK Finance Lenders’ Handbook specifications. The UK Finance Lenders’ Handbook conditions require your lawyer to disclose issues such as defects with the lease so that the mortgage company can be afforded the opportunity to check with their valuer as to the extent that the value of the property is affected. Should you refuse to allow your lawyer to make the appropriate notification then your conveyancer will have no choice but to discontinue acting for you.

I purchased a freehold property in Roehampton but still pay rent, why is this and what is this?

It’s unusual for properties in Roehampton and has limited impact for conveyancing in Roehampton but some freehold properties in England (particularly common in North West England) pay an annual sum known as a Chief Rent or a Rentcharge to a third party who has no other legal interest in the land.

Rentcharge payments are usually between £2.00 and £5.00 per year. Rentcharges date back many centuries, but the Rent Charge Act 1977 barred the establishment of fresh rentcharges from 1977 onwards.

Previous rentcharges can now be redeemed by making a lump sum payment under the Act. Any rentcharges that are still in existence after 2037 is to be dispensed with completely.

I am buying a new build flat in Roehampton. Can I do my own conveyancing?

Leaving aside the complexities and merits of DIY conveyancing in Roehampton you will have to appoint a solicitor on your lender's conveyancing panel to look after their interests. Most people therefore find it easier to let the solicitor act for them and the lender. Furthermore there is minimal cost savings to be made in you doing conveyancing for yourself and another lawyer conducting the conveyancing for the lender. Please feel free to use the search tool to find a lawyer on your lender panel in Roehampton.

What makes your site different to alternative online quote calculators for conveyancing in Roehampton?

At this site get an accurate costs illustration from a Solicitor or Licensed Conveyancer that appreciates the nuances of your conveyancing in Roehampton. Unlike many estate agents and many comparison sites we are not in the business of charging firms a commission if you select them for your property ownership legalities in Roehampton

I am thinking of appointing a conveyancing solicitor in Roehampton for my home move. Is it possible to see a solicitor's complaints history with the legal regulator?

Members of the public can search for presented Solicitor Regulator Association (SRA) decisions stemming from investigations started on or after 1 January 2008. Visit Check a solicitor's record. For details Pre 2008, or to check a solicitors history, phone 0870 606 2555, 08.00 - 18.00 any week day save for Tuesday when lines open at 9.30am. For callers outside the UK, call +44 (0)121 329 6800. The SRA could recorded call for training reasons.