Statement on Conveyancing transactions

1 April, 2020

The CLC is aware of conveyancers coming under pressure to complete on non-critical transactions which involve one or more of the parties moving house during the current period of restrictions aimed at fighting the Coronavirus. As the government guidance states, ‘Conveyancers should advise their clients who are ready to move not to exchange contracts on an occupied property unless they have made explicit provision for the risks presented by the virus’.

Work can continue to prepare for house sales and purchases, but people are advised not to enter into contracts which might create obligations which would conflict with the current public health advice set out here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/government-advice-on-home-moving-during-the-coronavirus-covid-19-outbreak.

Conveyancers should keep a written record of clients’ instructions as usual and especially that they have been informed of the potential risks arising from Covid-19.

Further guidance is available from the CLC at https://www.clc-uk.org/lawyers/coronavirus/faqs-on-coronavirus-for-clc-practices/