What are the different types of searches?
There are multiple property searches that you can get when buying a house. Some of which are mandatory for all properties, and others which are only relevant on certain property types, or for certain locations.
The three main searches when buying a house are:
Environmental search
This search looks at whether the property you are purchasing is built on or near contaminated land or water, as well as the risk of potential landslips or flooding. Providing information about contamination risks from nearby landfill sites, industrial uses, radon gas hazard, ground stability, and a flood risk rating. Find out more about environmental searches.
Typical cost - Often priced at approximately £60.
Local authority search
This search reviews all the information the local authority holds on the house you’re buying. It provides a detailed view of the property and some general information about its surrounding area. This includes issues such as planning and building regulations, road adoption status, and any nearby roadwork or railway schemes. Find out more about local authority searches.
Typical cost - Ranges from £150 to £400. The exact cost will vary based on the specific local authority overseeing the property's area.
Land registry search
This search confirms the legal ownership of the property and checks for any existing mortgages or charges against the property. It also provides information on property boundaries and any rights of way or other restrictions that may apply. Find out more about land registry searches.
Typical cost - A Land registry search ranges from £7 - £11 per search dependant on if you apply for the search by post or online
What other conveyancing searches are there?
In addition to the main three searches, other specialised searches may be necessary based on the property's location and specific concerns:
Water and drainage search
This search plays a crucial role in understanding your property’s infrastructure:
Connection to Main Water Supply: Discover if your property is connected to the main water supply, ensuring access to essential services.
Foul Water and Surface Drainage: Determine whether these are linked to the public sewer, which can impact maintenance and potential future costs.
Location of Water Mains: Identify the exact location of water mains, which is vital for both repairs and renovations.
Public Sewer Boundaries: Learn if a public sewer runs within your property boundaries, as this might affect your ability to extend or alter the property.
The search establishes where your water comes from and whether there are any public drains running through the property or land, providing a comprehensive overview essential for informed decision-making.
Typical cost - Expect to pay around £60 for insights into water supply and drainage infrastructure.
Mining search
This search checks whether the property has been built on land where there has been historic mining, such as coal, brine, or other materials, as this increases the risk of subsidence.
Typical costs - Basic searches and reports start at around £30 heading upwards of £150 for a more detailed report looking for potential subsidence.
Flood search
This search is required in areas prone to flooding to assess the likelihood and risks of flooding affecting the property. It provides more detailed information if an environmental search highlights a flood risk.
Typical cost - A flood risk report usually ranges from £50 to £75, depending on the provider
Chancel liability search
If you buy a house which is within the medieval parishes of a church, you may need this search to check if you are liable to contribute towards the cost of repairs to the church. Although most of these liabilities no longer exist, some properties may still have this liability. If your house is one of the few that still remain liable, you may want to take out an indemnity insurance policy to help cover you against future costs.
Chancel liability dates back to medieval times when certain properties were obligated to help fund church repairs. Despite changes in the law in October 2013, which should have ensured that any liability appears on the title deeds, there are still situations where this might not be the case. Therefore, it's essential to verify this aspect during property transactions. This search can uncover hidden obligations that might not be immediately visible, ensuring you're fully aware of any potential financial responsibilities tied to your property.
Typical cost - A basic search, known as a chancel check often costs around £25. However, it can be up to £100.
Planning search
This search checks the planning history of the properties in the surrounding neighbourhood.
Unlike a local authority search, which only focuses on the planning history of a specific property address, a planning search provides a broader view. It reveals not only the history of the property in question but also includes details about the surrounding area. This comprehensive approach ensures you understand both the current status and any future developments that might affect the neighbourhood.
Typical cost - This can range from £30 - £40
Energy and Infrastructure search
This search identifies planned energy projects or infrastructure developments that might affect the property, such as high-speed rail projects or new power plants.
Typica cost - Between £30 and £90, depending on the provider and the scope of the search
These additional searches are not exhaustive, and your conveyancer will discuss the searches that they think are best for your property. Depending on the initial findings, further targeted searches may be recommended to address specific issues or concerns.
Get a Search pack guarantee
If your purchase is unable to proceed to exchange of contracts the cost of your next set of searches will be supplied FREE of charge. (Subject to terms and conditions).