What Documents Do I Have to Prepare Before Selling My House?

Why is Getting My Paperwork Organised So Important?

A well-prepared seller is a successful seller. When you have all your documents ready, your conveyancer can send the draft contract pack to your buyer's solicitor the moment you accept an offer. This proactive approach, known as being "contract ready," can significantly speed up the entire transaction and reduce the risk of the sale falling through.

The Absolute Essentials: What You Need to Get Started

These are the non-negotiable documents you'll need to hand to your estate agent and solicitor to kickstart the selling process.

• Proof of Identity: Your solicitor is legally required to verify who you are to comply with anti-money laundering regulations. You will need one form of photo ID (a valid passport or driving licence) and a recent proof of address (such as a council tax or utility bill from the last three months).

• Title Deeds: This is the legal proof of your ownership. Don't panic if you can't find a paper copy. Most properties in the UK are registered with HM Land Registry, and your solicitor can download the official copies for a small fee.

• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): An EPC rates your home's energy efficiency from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient). It is a legal requirement to have a valid EPC before your home can be marketed for sale. Certificates are valid for 10 years, so you may already have one. You can check the government's online EPC register to see if your property has a valid certificate. If not, your estate agent can help you arrange for an accredited assessor to conduct a survey.

The Key Property Forms: Telling Your Buyer About Your Home

Your solicitor will ask you to complete two standard but crucial forms. Gathering the information for these in advance will save a significant amount of time.

• Property Information Form (TA6): This is a comprehensive questionnaire about your property. It covers everything from boundary responsibilities and neighbourly disputes to details of building works and which utility suppliers you use. Honesty and accuracy are vital here to prevent any issues arising later in the process.

• Fittings and Contents Form (TA10): This form prevents any misunderstandings by creating a clear, legally binding list of what is included and excluded from the sale. It itemises everything from curtains and carpets to kitchen appliances and garden sheds, ensuring both you and the buyer know exactly what to expect on completion day.

Extra Documents for Leasehold Properties

If you're selling a flat or a leasehold house, you'll need an extra set of documents.

• Leasehold Information Pack (or Management Pack): This pack is provided by your freeholder or their managing agent. It contains essential information for the buyer, including details on ground rent, service charges, the building's insurance, and major works planned for the building. It is crucial to apply for this pack as soon as you decide to sell, as it can often take several weeks to arrive.

Helpful Documents That Can Speed Up Your Sale

Having these documents ready can impress potential buyers and give them the confidence to proceed quickly.

• Gas and Electrical Certificates: While not always legally required for a sale, providing a recent Gas Safety Certificate or an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) gives a buyer tremendous peace of mind that the property is safe and well-maintained.

• Building Regulations Certificates: Have you had an extension, converted the loft, or installed new windows or a boiler? You will need the building regulations completion certificates to prove the work complies with safety standards. If you can't find them, your local council's building control department may be able to provide copies.

• Warranties and Guarantees: Gather any paperwork for damp proofing, new appliances included in the sale, or guarantees for things like your windows or roof. This is another excellent way to demonstrate how well you've cared for your home.

What if I'm Missing a Document?

First of all, don't worry—it's a common issue. Your solicitor is the best person to advise you. Often, replacement documents can be obtained from the relevant authority. For certain missing certificates, such as for windows or building works, your solicitor may recommend taking out an indemnity insurance policy. This is a common, one-off payment that protects the buyer from potential financial loss due to the missing paperwork, allowing your sale to proceed without delay.

Your Ultimate Document Checklist for a Smooth Sale

Must-Haves:

• Proof of ID (Passport or Driving Licence)

• Proof of Address (e.g., recent utility bill)

• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

• Title Deeds (or instruct your solicitor to obtain them)

• Information for the Property Information Form (TA6)

• Decisions for the Fittings and Contents Form (TA10)

• For Leasehold Properties: Leasehold Information Pack

Good-to-Haves (to speed things up!):

• Gas Safety Certificate

• Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)

• Building Regulations Certificates for any alterations

• Guarantees and warranties (for windows, damp proofing, etc.)

By getting these documents in order, you're not just preparing for a sale; you're setting the stage for a successful and stress-free move.

How Homey Can Help You

Feeling overwhelmed by the paperwork? At Homey, we streamline the entire conveyancing process. Our platform provides a clear, digital dashboard where you can see exactly which documents are needed and securely upload them for your solicitor. We connect you with expert conveyancers and provide a free consultation to guide you through the process, ensuring you're fully prepared for a swift and successful sale.