Solicitors fees for house buying will cover many things includes stamp duty and the Land Register, but if there is a problem with a property that isn’t spotted until after completion, there is nowhere to turn. Therefore, you must conduct a proper investigation of the property before signing anything.
Japanese knotweed in a garden is one such problem. This is a fast growing, intrusive plant which can cause structural damage to properties – something that conveyancing solicitors and mortgage lenders will be concerned about, should they know about it. Not only that, but homeowners can be subject to legal action if they leave the plant untreated on their land and it damages a neighbour’s property.
Solicitors fees for buying a house won’t include the cost of a survey, and this will need to be organised separately in order to confirm whether there are any issues prior to the purchase taking place. However, it is important to attempt to identify potential problems such as this before going too far with the process and spending too much money. The seller has a legal obligation to warn you about this troublesome plant if they are aware of its presence, but if you suspect that it has taken hold on the land and you haven’t been told about it, you should seek professional advice immediately. Many mortgage lenders are extremely wary about investing in a property where Japanese knotweed is present, so it could affect your purchase.
Speak to your conveyancer and all other parties involved to find the best resolution to the issue.
Solicitors fees for house buying differ depending on the relative simplicity – or otherwise – of the case itself. To get an idea of the cost of your conveyancing, visit Conveyancing Index.
Our website (https://www.conveyancingindex.co.uk) gives advice and guidance as well as the chance to compare conveyancing costs.
Call us on 0203 874 2020 with your questions.