Many sellers are surprised when they hear that the buyer's conveyancer has raised enquiries.
It's common to wonder:
"Haven't I already completed all the forms?"
or
"Why are they asking so many questions?"
The truth is that enquiries are a normal part of almost every property transaction. They help the buyer understand the property, clarify anything that isn't clear from the paperwork and ensure they have the information they need before deciding whether to proceed.
Most enquiries are entirely routine and don't mean there's a problem with your sale.
The Short Answer
The buyer's conveyancer will review the title documents, the property forms, the contract papers, search results and any supporting documents before raising any enquiries.
Some enquiries are standard and arise on almost every transaction, whilst others are specific to your property.
Your conveyancer will review the enquiries, explain anything that requires your input and prepare the replies on your behalf.
The Explanation
Once the buyer's conveyancer has received the contract pack, they'll begin investigating the legal title to your property.
They'll compare the information you've provided with the legal documents and look for anything that needs clarification.
For example, they may ask about:
- Alterations or extensions to the property.
- Planning permission or Building Regulations approval.
- Guarantees and warranties.
- Rights of way or shared access.
- Boundaries.
- Disputes or complaints.
- Fixtures and fittings.
- Service charges and ground rent (for leasehold properties).
- Management company information.
- Occupiers at the property.
- Mortgage redemption arrangements.
- Missing paperwork or certificates.
Not every seller will receive the same enquiries.
Some properties generate very few questions, whilst older properties, leasehold homes or properties that have been altered may naturally require further clarification.
The important thing to remember is that enquiries are simply part of the legal process. They allow the buyer's conveyancer to report fully to their client before contracts are exchanged.
Common Questions
Have the enquiries been raised because there's a problem?
Usually not.
Most enquiries are routine and arise because the buyer's conveyancer is carrying out their legal investigations thoroughly.
Do I have to answer every enquiry myself?
Not necessarily.
Many enquiries are answered by your conveyancer using the legal documents already available. Where your knowledge is needed, we'll explain exactly what information we're asking you to provide.
What if I don't know the answer?
That's perfectly acceptable.
If you're unsure, let us know. It's always better to say you don't know than to guess.
We'll discuss whether the information can be obtained from another source or whether a different response is appropriate.
Why are they asking about something that happened years ago?
The buyer's conveyancer is trying to establish the legal position of the property, not just what's happened recently.
Sometimes historic alterations, guarantees or legal documents remain relevant even if the work was carried out many years ago.
Top Tip
If you have certificates, guarantees, planning permissions or Building Regulations approvals, keep them together from the outset.
Having them ready often allows enquiries to be answered much more quickly.
Did You Know?
Many enquiries can be answered before they're even raised if the seller provides clear, complete information and supporting documents at the beginning of the transaction.
Common Misconception
"The buyer's conveyancer is trying to make the sale fall through."
Almost never.
Their job is to protect their client's interests by ensuring they have all the information they need before becoming legally committed to buying the property.
The MA Lawyers Approach
At MA Lawyers, we review every enquiry carefully before sending it to you.
Many enquiries can be answered using the legal paperwork we already hold, meaning you won't be asked to deal with matters unnecessarily.
Where we do need your help, we'll explain what the enquiry means, why it's being asked and exactly what information we're looking for.
Our aim is to provide clear, accurate replies that help keep your sale progressing while ensuring the buyer has the information they need to make an informed decision.
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