My brother and I have lately acquired a property in Southsea. We have noticed several issues with the house which we suspect were missed in the conveyancing searches. Do we have any recourse? Can you clarify the type of searches that should have been ordered for conveyancing in Southsea?

The query is not clear as to the nature of the problems and if they are specific to conveyancing in Southsea. Conveyancing searches and due diligence initiated during the buying process are carried out to help avoid problems. As part of the legal transfer of property, a property owner fills in a document known as a SPIF. answers provided is incorrect, you may have a misrepresentation claim against the seller for any losses that you have suffered. The survey should have identified any problems with the structure of the property. Assuming a detailed survey was carried out and the issues were not identified, you may have a claim against the surveyor. However, if you did not have a full survey, you may be responsible for fixing any defects that have now been noted. We would always encourage buyers to take every possible step to ensure they are completely aware of the condition of a property before purchase regardless of whether they are buying in Southsea.

When researching mumsnet.com for a cheap solicitor in Southsea, most say that I should look for a CQS assured solicitor. What is CQS?

Southsea Conveyancing Quality Scheme law firms have obtained accreditation under the Law Society's Scheme (CQS) CQS was established to promote high standards in the in the legal transfer of properties. CQS helps home movers to identify practices that provide a quality residential conveyancing. Southsea is one of locations in England and Wales in which CQS have offices. The scheme requires law firms to undergo a strict assessment, compulsory training, self-certification, spot checks and yearly assessments in order to maintain CQS status. It is available to solicitors and not licensed conveyancers and has the support of the Council of Mortgage Lenders.

What will a local search reveal about the property we're buying in Southsea?

Southsea conveyancing often commences with the ordering local authority searches directly from your local Authority or via a personal search company such as Onsearch The local search plays a central part in most Southsea conveyancing purchase; that is if you wish to avoid any nasty once you have moved into your property. The search should provide information on, amongst other things, details on planning applications applicable to the property (whether granted or refused), building control history, any enforcement action, restrictions on permitted development, nearby road schemes, contaminated land and radon gas; in all a total of 13 topic headings.

I am buying a new build apartment in Southsea. Conveyancing is daunting at the best of times but I have never purchased a new build flat before. What sort of enquires would be asked in new build legal work.

Set out below are examples of a few leasehold new build questions that you should expect your new-build leasehold conveyancing in Southsea

Has the Lease plan been approved by the Land Registry and if not when will they be lodged for this purpose? Will control of the Management Company (if any) be handed over to purchasers on completion of the last sale or earlier? Please supply a car parking plan. The Lease must contain a provision on behalf of the Vendor to pay the service charges in respect of unoccupied units in order to ensure that all services can be provided. Will the freehold then be transferred for a nominal consideration (not exceeding £100) to the Management Company?

I am looking for a conveyancing lawyer in Southsea for my home move. Is it possible to review a firm’s record with the legal regulator?

You may review documented Solicitor Regulator Association (SRA) decisions resulting from investigations started on or after 1 January 2008. Visit Check a solicitor's record. For information about the period before 1 January 2008, or to check a firm's history, telephone 0870 606 2555, 08.00 - 18.00 any week day save for Tuesday when lines open at 9.30am. For non-uk callers, dial +44 (0)121 329 6800. The regulator could recorded telephone calls for training requirements.