Tayntons LLP, Gloucester, CQS accredited solicitors, warns of potential pitfalls for unprepared buyers of newly built homes

31st October 2011 14:27

Home buyers choosing to purchase newly built properties face pitfalls with yet further complications when buying a property before it is even built or where it is only partly built, says Tayntons LLP Solicitors in Gloucester.

Tayntons LLP which earlier this year secured the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme status, says that the legalities of buying newly built property differs from buying a second hand property and there are different factors to consider such as whether the property will be approved as suitable for occupation and whether  the new roads and drains will be built properly.

The warning comes as recent research by Which? shows that more than half of those homeowners surveyed who had bought a newly built property in the last five years experienced problems, including delays and unexpected additional costs.

Sarah Mitchem, conveyancing expert and LLP Partner said: “Buying a new home  requires some additional preparation in advance with your solicitor. Establishing whether the plans reflect what is registered at the Land Registry and finding out whether the property complies with all of the planning and building regulation requirements are particularly important for newly built properties.

"In addition, making sure the contract sets out everything the builder has agreed to do, such as laying a lawn, installing additional sockets and laying carpets is important.  

“At Tayntons LLP we are familiar with the tighter deadlines, pre-exchange contract issues, as well as the special procedures including the need for an additional valuation involved in obtaining a mortgage for a newly built home.”

 Tayntons LLP says that a raft of legal issues need to be checked, such as planning permission, rights of drainage and water supply, as well as rights to use all pipes and cables to the property. Your solicitor will also ensure that building regulations have been adhered to, a special insurance for new homes is obtained and issues in relation to roads on the estate where the property is being built comply with the Highways Act.

Sarah Mitchem adds: “Buying a newly built house comes with many benefits – no chain, a brand new home and often appealing finance packages on buying. However, the downside is that there is more to it than signing on the dotted line. Getting help from a CQS accredited solicitor such as Tayntons LLP should be the first port of call when buying a newly built house.”

Tayntons LLP Solicitors underwent a rigorous application and assessment by the national Law Society to become part of CQS initiative, which recognises high quality in residential conveyancing. CQS has the support of the Council of Mortgage Lenders, the Building Societies Association, Legal Ombudsman and the Association of British Insurers.

For further information contact Sarah Mitchem on her direct dial 01452 509853 or email: sarah.mitchem@tayntons.co.uk