How to Prepare Your Paperwork When Selling a House

There's a lot to think about when selling a house. This includes making sure you prepare all the necessary paperwork for your potential buyers, such as completing a property information form and providing details on elements such as fixtures and contents. We look at what documents are required and when, so you can best mitigate any issues with your sale.

If you're selling a house, it's a legal requirement to provide certain details about the property in order that your buyer can make an informed decision about the purchase. The volume of paperwork can feel daunting, especially if you haven't moved home for a while.

Your solicitor is on hand to help. They will send you the relevant forms to complete and will also let you know what other documents you need to make available. It's a good idea to contact them as early in the process as possible, so you can check what you need to do and allow yourself plenty of time to gather the relevant information.

Key documents when selling a house include:

• the property information form (TA6)
• a fittings and contents form (TA10)
• a leasehold information form (when selling a leasehold property)
• Energy Performance Certificate

Your solicitor will also need to request any title deeds that may be held by a mortgage lender.

What is the property information form?

The property information form (TA6) gives information about the property, including details such as:

• property boundaries and who assumes responsibility for these
• any existing or potential disputes
• any alterations or changes that have been made to the property
• environmental matters affecting the property, such as flood risks or the presence of Japanese knotweed
• parking arrangements
• connection to utilities and services

The property information form is provided to the buyer's solicitor along with the draft contract and Land Registry title documents.

What is the fittings and contents form?

The fittings and contents form (TA10) provides a comprehensive list of all the items included in the sale, so the buyer is clear about what will remain with the property and what you will be taking with you. There may be some negotiation on what items are included in the sale.

This includes:

• Fixtures - permanent items attached to the property, such as bathroom suites, fireplaces, kitchen units etc.
• Fittings - moveable items, such as carpets, curtains, white goods and furniture.

It's important to complete the fittings and contents form carefully as this becomes legally binding once contracts are exchanged (the form is attached to the contract).

What is the leasehold information form?

The leasehold information form (TA7) provides key details for the buyer on aspects of the leasehold, such as:

• the remaining time on the lease
• what ground rent and service charges apply to the property
• who is responsible for maintenance of the property
• who manages the building

The form must be completed in addition to the property information form (TA6). You will also need to provide any documents relevant to the lease, such as the insurance policy and invoices/receipts for ground rent, maintenance or service charges.

What is the Energy Performance Certificate?

It is a legal requirement for all residential properties placed on the open market to have an or to speak to a member of the team.

has built a strong reputation in Devon, offering an efficient and comprehensive conveyancing process for everyone from first time buyers looking for guidance through to commercial investors wanting to get the deal done.