Essential Documents You’ll Need When Selling Your Home in the UK
Selling your home can be an exciting yet demanding process. From finding the right buyer to completing legal checks, there are several steps involved before you can officially hand over the keys. One of the most crucial parts of this journey is gathering the right documents early on. Having everything in order not only helps avoid delays but also builds confidence with potential buyers and solicitors.
At Twenty20 Estates, we’ve put together a clear guide on the essential documents you’ll need to prepare before selling your property in the UK
Proof of Identity
Before any sale can proceed, sellers must verify their identity. This is a legal requirement under anti-money laundering regulations. Your solicitor or estate agent will typically ask for a valid passport or driving licence for photo ID and a recent utility bill, bank statement, or council tax bill (dated within the last three months) as proof of address.
Title Deeds
Title deeds confirm that you are the legal owner of the property. If you have a mortgage, your lender or solicitor may already hold them. For most modern homes, ownership details are now recorded digitally with HM Land Registry. If your property has not been registered, as is often the case with older homes, you’ll need to locate the original paper deeds or request assistance retrieving them.
Property Information Form (TA6)
This form provides essential information about the property to the buyer. It covers details such as boundaries, disputes, alterations, guarantees, and services. Completing this accurately and honestly helps avoid complications later in the sale process.
Fittings and Contents Form (TA10)
This document outlines what is included in the sale for example, whether you’re leaving kitchen appliances, light fittings, or curtains. Being specific avoids misunderstandings and helps buyers clearly understand what they’re purchasing.
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
An Energy Performance Certificate is a legal requirement when selling a home in the UK. It rates your property’s energy efficiency from A to G and remains valid for ten years. If yours has expired or you’ve made major upgrades, you’ll need to arrange a new one before listing your property.
Leasehold or Freehold Information
If your property is leasehold, you’ll need to provide additional documents such as a copy of the lease agreement, details of service charges and ground rent, and contact information for the freeholder or managing agent. Buyers will want clarity on lease length, fees, and restrictions.
Building Regulation Certificates and Planning Permissions
If you’ve made extensions or renovations, you’ll need to show evidence that the work complies with regulations. Examples include planning permissions, completion certificates, FENSA certificates, and gas or electrical safety certificates. These reassure buyers that the property improvements were done legally and safely.
Mortgage Details
If you still have a mortgage, provide your solicitor with the lender’s name and your account number. This allows them to request a redemption statement showing how much is left to repay once the sale completes.
Guarantees and Warranties
Any transferable warranties for recent works such as damp proofing, boiler installation, or roofing can add peace of mind for buyers. Keep all certificates and receipts safely filed and ready.
Management Information Pack (for Leasehold Properties)
This pack includes details about property management, insurance, and maintenance schedules. It’s usually prepared by the managing agent or freeholder, and there may be a small fee for obtaining it. Preparing the right paperwork ahead of time makes the entire selling process smoother and faster. It also shows buyers and solicitors that you are organised and transparent
two qualities that can make your home stand out in a competitive market.
At Twenty20 Estates, we guide our clients through every stage of selling their property, from document preparation to final completion. Our goal is to ensure your sale moves swiftly and successfully, without unnecessary delays.
■ 020 3500 4622
■ hello@twenty20estates.co.uk
■ www.twenty20estates.co.uk
