What is the difference between conveyancers, solicitors and surveyors?

When navigating the complexities of property transactions, it’s essential to understand the roles of conveyancers, solicitors, and surveyors. These professionals play a key part in ensuring a smooth, legally sound transaction.

Let’s take a look at what sets these roles apart, and why it’s important to hire experienced, trustworthy professionals.

Contact your local Parkers branch for expert advice and guidance.

What is conveyancing?

To understand the specific roles involved, it is first important to know what conveyancing actually is. It is essentially the legal process of transferring the ownership of a property from one party to another.

It involves a series of steps designed to ensure that the transaction is legally binding and that the buyer obtains clear and undisputed ownership of the property. This process also includes conducting title searches to check for any legal issues, drafting and reviewing tenancy agreements, and managing financial transactions.

What is a conveyancer?

A conveyancer is someone who specialises in the legal aspects of buying and selling a property. They are licensed professionals who have completed specialised training in property law, making them experts in their specific field.

All conveyancers must be registered with the Council of Licensed Conveyancers, so you can be sure that you will receive a professional, efficient service from them.

What is a solicitor?

It is also possible to have your conveyancing work completed by a solicitor, which is someone who is trained in multiple different areas of law, not solely property law. Solicitors can therefore offer advice on other areas of law; however, they tend to come at a higher cost.

As they have to juggle various different types of work, solicitors may be slightly less time-efficient than conveyancers.

What is a surveyor?

Surveyors specialise in evaluating properties, focusing on their physical structure, condition, and value. They conduct detailed inspections to identify any defects or issues, such as damp, subsidence, or structural damage, and provide property valuations for those looking to buy a property.

Surveyors are usually members of professional bodies such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).

Related: A building survey: What it is and why you need one

The importance of a good surveyor

Using a good surveyor is crucial for several reasons, as their expertise can significantly impact the outcome of property transactions and ownership. 

A good surveyor provides an accurate valuation of the property, ensuring that buyers pay a fair price and sellers receive appropriate compensation. This helps avoid overpaying or underselling, which can have significant financial implications.

Experienced surveyors thoroughly inspect properties for structural issues and defects that may not be immediately apparent. Early detection of problems can save buyers from unexpected repair costs and potential safety hazards.

Additionally, a comprehensive survey report can influence mortgage lenders’ decisions, as they rely on valuations and assessments to determine the risk of lending money for a property. A good surveyor’s report can facilitate the mortgage approval process.

Related: Everything you need to know about exchange of contracts

How can we help you move?

At Parkers, we understand the importance of choosing a reliable conveyancer and surveyor to ensure a smooth and secure property transaction. Because of this, we have developed a network of trusted conveyancers and surveyors who have proven expertise in their respective fields.

Whether you are buying, selling, or refinancing a property, our agency will carefully assess your specific needs and preferences to match you with the most suitable conveyancer or surveyor.

With our guidance, you can rest assured that your property transaction will be handled by qualified professionals who will protect your interests and provide you with peace of mind.

Ready to move to a new home? Contact your local Parkers branch today.

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