DIY enthusiasts ‘will need to ensure safety’ before seeking a residential conveyancing solicitor

Posted 04/04/2011

People hoping to use a residential conveyancing solicitor to sell a home need to make sure that any improvements they have made to the property meet required safety standards.

This is the recommendation of Andrew Leech, director at the National Home Improvement Council, who warned that inadequate alterations can result in the owner not being able to sell.

He said it is a good idea to bring in a professional to check DIY projects such as electricity socket movements, or to get them to carry improvements out in the first place if people feel they are not competent themselves.

“When the solicitor asks for details of the improvements that you have made, he may also ask for certificates to show that you have made these improvements; if you haven’t got certificates, then you won’t sell the house,” Mr Leach commented.

Last month, a report from MyHammer showed that 60 per cent of homeowners in the UK plan to carry out some form of property improvement this year, with a third hoping to do a big project such as a loft conversion.