Yes, if Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) is due, we will complete the return and submit the payment to HMRC on your behalf – always within 14 days of the “effective date” of the transaction, which will usually be your completion date.

You don’t need to do anything unless we advise otherwise.

Once completion has taken place, we send an application to HM Land Registry to register the property in your name.

Registration typically takes between 4 to 13 months, but for some leasehold or new build properties, it may take longer. Delays can also occur if the Land Registry requests extra information or there are complexities with the seller’s title. There’s no need to worry—we’ll let you know once it’s complete.

Yes. Once registration is complete, we’ll send you a copy of your Title Information Document, which confirms you as the new legal owner. If you have a mortgage, your lender will also receive confirmation that their charge (security for their loan to you) has been registered.

No. We’ll notify your lender that registration has completed. We’ll also provide them with evidence that their interest has been registered with the Land Registry.

Yes. Once everything is finalised, we’ll send you:

• A confirmation of registration
• A copy of the registered title (Title Information Document)
• Any indemnity policies (if applicable)

We recommend keeping these documents safe for future reference or if you decide to sell/remortgage later.

If your property is leasehold, we’ll also notify the freeholder or managing agent of the purchase, so they can update their records. You may be asked to pay a small registration or notice fee—this will have been included in your completion statement if known at the time though maybe requested after completion depending on circumstances.

No.

This is something you’ll need to do directly. We recommend notifying:

• Your local council (for council tax)
• Gas, electric, water providers
• Broadband, TV licence and home insurance

Be sure to take meter readings on the day you move in!

If it’s something legal (such as a boundary issue or an undisclosed right of way), please contact us and we’ll advise you on next steps.

If it’s physical (such as a fault or condition of the property), unfortunately once contracts have exchanged, the purchase is binding. This is why your solicitor may advise you to arrange for a survey or inspection to be completed beforehand you commit to the purchase.

We’ll look into it and advise you on the next steps. In some cases, indemnity insurance may cover you, but we’ll help you assess the situation.

If you now own property, it’s a good idea for you to update your Will to reflect this. Our Private Client team will be able to assist you if you’d like help arranging or updating a Will to ensure your wishes are protected.

Please speak to the expert handling your matter or contact us at enquiries@watsonramsbottom.com should you wish to arrange this.