How Long Do Enquiries Take When Buying a House

Enquiries are a crucial part of the property conveyancing process in the UK and typically take between one and four weeks to resolve. However, this timeline can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the property, how responsive the seller’s solicitor is, and whether any issues arise that require further investigation or documents.

Enquiries usually begin after the buyer’s solicitor has reviewed the draft contract and the results of the property searches. They are designed to clarify anything that is unclear, inconsistent or potentially problematic in the title deeds, searches or seller’s information. These questions must be answered fully before the transaction can proceed to exchange of contracts.

What Are Enquiries in the Conveyancing Process?

Enquiries refer to a set of legal questions raised by the buyer’s solicitor after reviewing the documents provided by the seller’s solicitor. They ensure that the buyer understands what they are purchasing and that there are no hidden issues such as rights of way, boundary disputes, service charges or ongoing legal matters.

There are typically two types of enquiries. Standard enquiries cover general questions that apply to most property transactions, such as the fixtures and fittings being included in the sale or whether the property has been altered without planning permission. Additional enquiries are specific to the property and may involve clarification of planning approvals, structural changes or unusual legal covenants.

What Affects How Long Enquiries Take?

The speed at which enquiries are answered depends on several factors. If the seller’s solicitor has all the information readily available and the seller responds quickly, the process can move swiftly. However, delays often occur if documents are missing, if further third-party evidence is needed or if the seller is unsure how to answer certain questions.

For leasehold properties, enquiries may take longer due to the involvement of managing agents or freeholders, who need to provide detailed replies about ground rent, service charges, buildings insurance and maintenance obligations.

Complex titles, listed buildings, properties with historic alterations or those in conservation areas can also cause longer enquiry stages, as solicitors may need to examine old planning documents or obtain indemnity policies.

How Can Enquiries Delay a House Sale?

Unanswered or poorly answered enquiries are one of the most common causes of delay in property transactions. If the buyer’s solicitor is not satisfied with the responses, they may ask follow-up questions or request extra documentation. Until all enquiries are resolved, the solicitor is unlikely to recommend exchange of contracts.

Delays in enquiries can push back completion dates and increase the risk of a chain collapse if buyers or sellers become impatient. It can also create complications if mortgage offers are time-limited or if removals or accommodation arrangements are already in place.

How to Speed Up the Enquiries Process

Sellers can help avoid delays by instructing a solicitor early, preparing all relevant documents and responding promptly to questions. This includes locating planning permissions, building regulation certificates, guarantees for any works and the original title deeds if possible.

Buyers can stay in touch with their solicitor and agent, asking for regular updates and ensuring that any further information they are required to provide is delivered quickly.

In leasehold cases, requesting the management pack early and checking that service charges are up to date can help avoid hold-ups. If a particular enquiry is taking too long, your solicitor may suggest negotiating a workaround such as an indemnity policy to move the process forward.

Conclusion

Enquiries when buying a house generally take one to four weeks to complete, though the timeline can vary depending on the property type and how quickly both sides respond. While they may seem tedious, they play a vital role in uncovering legal or practical issues that could affect your future ownership. Being organised, proactive and communicative throughout this stage can help avoid unnecessary delays and keep the transaction moving towards exchange and completion.