Selling a house involves more paperwork than simply signing a contract and handing over the keys. Your solicitor or conveyancer will need various documents to confirm your identity, provide information about the property and give the buyer the details they need before proceeding.
Getting your paperwork together early can help prevent unnecessary delays later. So, what documents do you need to sell a house in the UK?
1. Proof of Identity and Address
Your solicitor or conveyancer will need to verify your identity as part of anti-money laundering checks. You will typically be asked for photographic identification, such as a passport or driving licence, along with recent proof of your address.
Your conveyancer may also need information about how you originally acquired the property and other details required for their checks.
2. Title Deeds and Land Registry Details
Title deeds provide information about the ownership of a property.
Most properties in England and Wales are now registered with HM Land Registry, meaning your solicitor can usually obtain the relevant title information electronically.
If your property is unregistered, however, original title deeds can become particularly important. Your solicitor can advise you on what documentation will be required.
3. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
In most cases, you need a valid Energy Performance Certificate when selling a home. An EPC provides information about the property’s energy efficiency and potential improvements.
EPCs are generally valid for 10 years. If yours has expired or you do not have one, you may need to arrange a new assessment before marketing the property.
4. Property Information Form
Sellers are commonly asked to complete the Law Society’s TA6 Property Information Form.
This provides the buyer with important information about the property, including matters such as boundaries, disputes, alterations, insurance, utilities and environmental issues.
It is important to answer these questions accurately and honestly. If you are unsure about a particular question, speak to your conveyancer rather than guessing.
5. Fittings and Contents Form
The TA10 Fittings and Contents Form sets out what will and will not be included when the property is sold.
This can cover everything from curtains and light fittings to kitchen appliances, sheds and other items. Completing the form helps prevent confusion between buyers and sellers about what will remain at the property after completion.
6. Leasehold Documents
Selling a leasehold property generally involves additional paperwork.
You may need to provide a copy of the lease alongside information about ground rent, service charges, buildings insurance and the property’s management arrangements. Sellers are also commonly asked to complete a TA7 Leasehold Information Form.
Obtaining leasehold information can take time, so it is worth starting this process early.
7. Planning Permission and Building Regulations Documents
If you have extended, converted or significantly altered the property, your conveyancer may ask for documents relating to the work.
Depending on what was done, this could include planning permission, Building Regulations approval, completion certificates or other relevant documentation.
You should also gather any warranties or guarantees you have for work carried out on the property.
What If You’re Missing Some Documents?
Missing paperwork does not necessarily mean you cannot sell your house.
Depending on the document and circumstances, your solicitor may be able to obtain another copy, confirm the information elsewhere or advise on an alternative solution. What matters is identifying missing paperwork as early as possible rather than discovering it just before exchange.
Get Organised Before You Sell
You do not need to wait until you have accepted an offer to start gathering your documents. Getting organised early can make it easier for your solicitor to begin the conveyancing process and reduce the risk of avoidable paperwork delays.
If you’re thinking about selling your property in Hull, understanding what you’ll need before you start can make the process considerably smoother – whichever route you ultimately choose to sell your home.