When your offer is accepted, excitement builds quickly – but so can impatience. Many buyers and sellers ask the same question: how long does conveyancing actually take?
The Average Timeline
On average, conveyancing in the UK takes 16 to 22 weeks, though some transactions complete faster. The timeline depends on factors such as property type, chain length, mortgage approval, and how quickly information is exchanged.
At Chapter Law, speed matters. We use modern technology and efficient working practices to drive transactions forward reduce delays and achieve faster completions. With clear, proactive communication at the heart of what we do, you will always know where you stand and what is happening next.
The Typical Stages:
- Instructing a Conveyancer
Appointing a conveyancer early helps to avoid delays. - Searches and Enquiries
Local authority, environmental, and drainage searches take time to process. - Mortgage Offer and Review
Lenders need time to issue a formal offer. - Exchange and Completion
Once both sides agree, contracts are exchanged, and a completion date is set.
Factors That Can Cause Delays:
- Waiting for mortgage approvals
- Slow responses to solicitor enquiries
- Long property chains
- Missing documentation
How to Speed Things Up:
- Provide ID and paperwork promptly
- Choose a conveyancer with good communication
- Keep in touch with your estate agent for updates
In Summary
While conveyancing can take a few months, good communication between your conveyancer, agent, and lender makes the process smoother. Patience and preparation are key to reaching completion day as efficiently as possible.