Seasonal House Sellers Face Testing Questions

PERTH, Scotland - Sept. 24, 2014 - PRLog -- Mrs Amanda Frenz, a Partner at Miller Hendry Solicitors in Tayside, commented:

“There is a lot of onus on the householder to make sure that all relevant documents are provided in the sale of their property. Alterations may need planning permission and, when the work is complete, homeowners will need a certificate confirming that those regulations have been satisfied.

This can mean having to be firm if a tradesperson treats such paperwork as of secondary importance, especially once the work is complete and they have been paid. You should keep thorough records of all work done in your property in the time you’ve lived there.”

While today’s “clear the clutter” style of living may make it tempting to throw away old papers when spring cleaning or thinking of moving home, anything relating to renovation or upgrading should be kept safe to avoid problems and delays when you come to sell your house. And, if the tradesperson didn’t give you the right paperwork, it makes sense to track down what you can before you get too far along the sale process.

Amanda continued:

“It’s well known that moving home is one of the most stressful events in life, even if it all goes smoothly.  If you haven’t got the right records and certificates, it’s bound to cause delay and, in the worst case scenario, it could lead to a buyer backing out.  When you’re planning any work in the house beyond simply decorating, it really makes sense to check out your responsibilities as a homeowner - you need to know what paperwork your tradesperson is supposed to provide and then make sure that they do what is required.”

Any work involving electricity or gas should be carried out by someone who is suitably qualified and they should certify that the work has been properly carried out in accordance with applicable regulations.  Replacement windows should also meet the requirements of the Building Regulations.

Old deeds and conveyancing documents may also be extremely important. While many properties are now registered in the Land Register, and the owner’s title consists of an electronic entry held by Registers of Scotland, the old deeds may contain information that does not appear in the Land Register records but which may, in certain circumstances, still be relevant in a sale transaction.

Many sets of Title Deeds can contain old Planning Permissions or Building Warrants for alterations, Timber Reports and Guarantees and Title Indemnity Policies where there is some issue with the Title Deeds and Insurance has been purchased.  Issues can also arise in relation to the boundaries and the old Deeds can prove invaluable.

“If in doubt,” says Amanda, “don’t throw it out!”

ENDS

For more information on Miller Hendry visit www.millerhendry.co.uk or call Tricia Fox on 07989 955039