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New Build Conveyancing

Buying a new build property requires careful legal review. Developers often require exchange within a short timeframe, sometimes before construction is complete.

Our conveyancing team provides clear, focused and practical advice to buyers of new build houses and flats across London and surrounding areas. We ensure you understand the contract, the timescales and the legal position before you commit.

How new build transactions differ

New build purchases are structured differently from standard property transactions. They commonly involve:

Reservation agreements

Strict exchange deadlines

Exchange before build completion

Completion on notice

Developer-drafted contracts

Estate management arrangements

Our role in your new build purchase

When acting for you, we:

Review the developer’s contract documentation

Check planning permissions and building regulations

Investigate roads, access and estate arrangements

Review new build warranty schemes

Advise on lease terms where applicable

Consider long-stop and completion provisions

Deal with your lender’s requirements

Guide you through exchange and completion

Our role is to ensure the legal framework is clear before contracts are exchanged.

Exchange deadlines

Developers frequently require exchange within 21 to 28 days of reservation.

This requires prompt instruction and structured progress. We work with you to meet deadlines while ensuring that proper checks are completed.

Buying off-plan

In many cases, contracts are exchanged before construction is complete. This means:

Completion may take place months after exchange
The property may not be available for full inspection at exchange
The contract may allow limited variation in the finished property

We explain these provisions clearly so you understand what you are agreeing to.

New build houses and estates

Even where a property is freehold, it may form part of a managed estate. We review:

Estate rent charges
Shared access arrangements
Maintenance obligations
Restrictions imposed by the developer

New build flats and leasehold structures

Where the property is leasehold, the lease must be reviewed carefully. We consider:

Ground rent provisions
Service charge arrangements
Repair obligations
Management structure
Lender requirements

Who we act for

We regularly act for:

First-time buyers
Buyers using mortgage finance
Buyers purchasing off-plan
Clients buying in London and surrounding areas

Why instruct us

Clients choose our team because we offer:

Clear and practical advice
Experience with developer-led transactions
Structured handling of tight deadlines
A measured and professional approach

We focus on ensuring you understand the legal position before you exchange contracts.

FAQs – New Build Conveyancing

Is new build conveyancing quicker?

Exchange can occur quickly due to developer deadlines. Completion may take place later once the property is finished.

What is completion on notice?

Completion on notice means the developer serves notice once the property is ready, requiring completion within a specified period.

What is a long-stop date?

A long-stop date sets a final deadline by which the property must be completed, after which certain contractual rights may arise.

Do you act for buyers with mortgages?

Yes. We deal with lender requirements as part of the transaction.

If you are reserving or have reserved a new build property, contact our team for clear advice on the conveyancing process.

OLA LESLIE SOLICITORS LLP

141-142 Lower Marsh,

London SE1 7AE

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