Why It Helps: Proactive sellers often provide a comprehensive pack to make their property more attractive. The cost is a small fraction of the sale price—a smart investment.

What They Cover: Local searches look into past and future plans that might affect the property or its area, avoiding surprises for the buyer. They may include:

• ✔️ Planning applications (current and historical)
• ✔️ Building control history
• ✔️ Nearby road or motorway schemes
• ✔️ Developments and contaminated land
• ✔️ Sewer and drainage schemes
• ✔️ Compulsory purchase orders

• Timing: Your solicitor can request searches from the local authority (takes 2–3 weeks, longer in some areas). For faster results, pay extra for a personal search by an agent.

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• Additional Searches to Consider:
  
  • Radon Gas Search: Radon can cause health issues. Check the UK Health Security Agency Radon Map (https://www.ukradon.org/) for at-risk areas (mainly South East Midlands and South West).
  • Flood Risk Assessment: Flood risks can impact insurance. Visit the Environment Agency (https://www.gov.uk/check-flood-risk) for updated data.
  • Chancel Liability Search: Identifies if the property is liable for church repairs (a medieval law still enforceable). Costs £100–£150. Fun fact: Andrew and Gail Wallbank paid over £400,000 for church repairs after a 20-year legal battle.

• Cost: Local authority search fees typically range from £200 to £400, depending on the council.