Buying or selling a property is an exciting milestone, but the legal process, known as conveyancing can feel daunting if you’ve never been through it before. At Lewis Denley Solicitors, we make the conveyancing process in the clear, simple, and stress-free.

In this guide, we’ll explain the steps in conveyancing, how long each stage usually takes, and what you can expect from start to finish.

Step 1: Instruction (1 week)

The process starts when you instruct a solicitor. At this stage, we’ll:

  • Send a client care letter
  • Confirm your ID
  • Gather details about the property transaction

This is the foundation of the conveyancing journey.

Step 2: Draft Contract (1–2 weeks)

The seller’s solicitor prepares a draft contract pack, which typically includes:

  • Title deeds
  • Property information forms
  • Fittings and contents details
  • Key legal documents

Your solicitor checks these carefully to ensure there are no problems.

Step 3: Searches (2–3 weeks)

If you’re buying, your solicitor will carry out conveyancing searches to uncover potential risks. These include:

  • Local authority search – planning permissions, road schemes, building regulations
  • Environmental search – flooding risks, contaminated land, landfill sites
  • Water & drainage search – connections to mains water and sewers

Searches can take longer depending on local authority response times, but your solicitor will keep you updated.

Step 4: Enquiries (1–2 weeks)

Once the draft contract and searches are in, your solicitor raises enquiries with the seller’s solicitor. These may cover:

  • Boundaries
  • Building work guarantees
  • Planning permissions
  • Anything unusual flagged in searches

The aim is to resolve questions and give you confidence before you commit.

Step 5: Mortgage & Finances (2–4 weeks, often alongside searches)

If you need a mortgage:

  • The lender issues a mortgage offer
  • Your solicitor checks the terms and conditions
  • You arrange your deposit

By this stage, your finances are ready for exchange.

Step 6: Exchange of Contracts (once steps 2–5 are complete)

At this point:

  • Both parties sign contracts
  • The buyer pays their deposit (usually 10%)
  • A completion date is set

From exchange, the sale or purchase becomes legally binding.

Step 7: Completion (typically 1–4 weeks after exchange)

Completion is moving day!

  • The buyer’s solicitor transfers the remaining funds
  • The seller vacates the property
  • The estate agent releases the keys

The property is now legally yours.

Step 8: Post-Completion 

Your solicitor takes care of final steps, including:

  • Paying Stamp Duty Land Tax (if due)
  • Registering the property at HM Land Registry
  • Sending you updated title documents

How long does Conveyancing take in the UK?

On average, conveyancing takes 10–12 weeks from instruction to completion. However, the timeline can vary depending on chains, mortgage lenders, and search turnaround times. Working with a proactive solicitor helps keep the process moving smoothly.

Why choose Lewis Denley Solicitors for Conveyancing?

At Lewis Denley, we combine expert legal knowledge with a modern, paperless process designed to make moving home faster and less stressful. Our team provides:

  • Clear communication
  • Proactive support
  • Regular updates at every stage

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, upsizing, downsizing, or investing, we’ll guide you from offer to keys with confidence.

Ready to start the conveyancing process? Contact our conveyancing team today on: 01403 456430, or email: info@lewisdenley.com.