First-Time Buyers: What Property Searches Are Needed When Buying a House and Why Do They Matter?

Local Authority Search

The local authority search is one of the most important searches in the conveyancing process. It provides information held by the local council relating to the property.

This can include details about planning permissions, building regulations, road schemes, enforcement notices, conservation areas and whether the property is affected by local development plans.

This search helps buyers understand whether there are planning issues or nearby developments that could affect the property in the future.

Water and Drainage Search

A water and drainage search confirms whether the property is connected to the public water supply and sewerage system.

It also identifies whether public sewers run within the boundaries of the property. This is important because building over or near a sewer may require permission from the relevant water authority.

Environmental Search

An environmental search looks at historical land use and environmental data relating to the property and surrounding area.

This search can reveal potential risks such as contaminated land, flood risk, landfill sites or other environmental concerns that may affect the safety, value or future sale of the property.

Chancel Repair Liability Search

A chancel repair search checks whether the property could carry a historic legal obligation to contribute towards repairs to the local parish church.

Although relatively rare, this liability can still exist in some areas of England and Wales, so it is important to identify any potential risk during the conveyancing process.