Why searches matter and how to avoid unnecessary delays
Once your offer has been accepted, one of the first legal steps is to arrange property searches. These searches provide essential information about the property and surrounding area, helping your conveyancer assess any potential risks before you commit to the purchase.
However, if the seller has already purchased their searches through Open Moove, you may not need to pay for them again. Here’s what you need to know.
What are property searches?
Property searches are legal checks conducted by your conveyancer to uncover any hidden issues before you buy. The three main types are:
📌 Local authority search – Checks planning restrictions, building regulations, conservation areas, and potential enforcement notices.
📌 Water and drainage search – Confirms water supply, drainage, and responsibility for maintenance.
📌 Environmental search – Identifies risks like flooding, land contamination, or subsidence.
💡 Fact: Mortgage lenders require searches before they approve funds, so they must be completed and 'in date' before exchange.
Has the seller already purchased searches?
If the seller themselves has used Open Moove, they may have already purchased their own property searches before listing the property.
✔ Time-saving – If the searches are still in date, there should be no reason they can’t be used.
✔ Cost-saving – If your conveyancer agrees to use them, you won’t have to pay for new ones.
💡 Important: Your conveyancer will review the existing searches and decide whether they are valid for their legal work. Take their guidance here.
What if the seller hasn’t purchased searches with Open Moove?
If the seller hasn’t already arranged searches, it becomes your responsibility. To avoid delays:
✔ Put money on account with your conveyancer immediately after your offer is accepted.
✔ Instruct your solicitor to order searches as soon as possible - some councils take weeks to return results.
✔ Don’t wait for mortgage approval before paying for searches - get the process started early.
💡 Tip: The sooner searches are ordered, the sooner your purchase can progress. Delaying payment for searches is one of the biggest causes of slow transactions.
What Open Moove suggests next
• Check if the seller has already purchased searches - if they have, ask your conveyancer if they can be used.
• If not, transfer money on account to your conveyancer immediately to avoid potential delays.
• Ensure your solicitor orders searches promptly - this step cannot be skipped.
• Download the Open Moove app to track your transaction progress and get expert guidance every step of the way.
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