Timeline
How long does conveyancing take?
It depends on the property, the chain and how quickly everyone responds. Here's what happens at each stage and what tends to slow things down.
The stages
- Instruction and ID checks — you choose a firm, sign its client care letter and prove your identity and funds.
- Contract pack and searches — the seller's side sends the draft contract; your conveyancer orders searches.
- Enquiries — questions are raised and answered about anything unclear.
- Mortgage offer and report — your lender issues its offer and your conveyancer reports to you.
- Exchange — contracts are signed and exchanged; the deal becomes binding.
- Completion — money moves, you get the keys, and you're registered as owner.
Common causes of delay
- Long chains, where every sale depends on another.
- Leasehold properties waiting on management packs from landlords or agents.
- Slow search results from some local authorities.
- Missing documents or delayed answers to enquiries.
- Mortgage offers or valuations taking longer than expected.
How to keep things moving
- Choose a conveyancer before your offer is accepted — compare quotes now.
- Make sure the firm is on your lender's panel (see lender panels).
- Have ID and proof of deposit, including gift letters, ready.
- Reply to your conveyancer's questions quickly.
For the full journey, use our moving house checklist or see conveyancing near me.