
Buying a new home is an exciting time, but it doesn’t always come without its fair share of stress. Some of this stress can come from the fact that the process feels out of your control. Especially if you’re in a chain, lots of the conveyancing process can be impacted by other people.
A good conveyancing solicitor will do everything they can to ensure the process runs smoothly for you. However, from time to time, conveyancing problems do pop up. So, it pays to be prepared so you can take the necessary steps to avoid them where possible.
This article outlines some of the most common conveyancing problems and delays you may encounter, as well as some tips for how to minimise the chance of them happening to you.
For more information about the conveyancing process as a whole, we have dedicated guides for both buyers and sellers. Click the buttons below to download your free guide:
Delays in the conveyancing process
The conveyancing process can be complex, with lots of moving parts and often several transactions linked to each other. As such, one of the most common conveyancing problems are delays to the process. For example, an issue with either the buyer or seller’s mortgage; issues uncovered during property searches leading to a renegotiation of price; or poor communication.
However, many of these delays can be minimised by choosing a conveyancer with a reputation for clear and prompt communication. The right conveyancer will work with you to set realistic timelines and, where possible, avoid potential delays.
Gazumping, gazundering, and gazetteering
These are little-known terms relating to the conveyancing process, especially for first time buyers. Gazumping refers to what happens when a seller accepts a higher offer from a different buyer, after accepting the initial buyer’s offer. To help avoid gazumping as a buyer, you should request that the property be taken off the market as soon as your offer has been accepted.
Gazundering happens when the buyer reduces their offer just before contracts are exchanged. To avoid this conveyancing problem as much as possible as a seller, you should maintain open communication with the buyer, and be prepared to negotiate if necessary to reach a fair agreement.
Gazetteering happens when the buyer pulls out of the sale after contracts have been exchanged. It is rare, but can result in the seller incurring extra legal fees and other expenses. If the buyer pulls out in this way, they will likely be liable for the costs. Maintaining good communication from all sides can help avoid it from happening.
Chain breaks
A ‘chain’ occurs when multiple sellers and buyers are all connected. In other words, each seller is also buying a property in a related transaction, leading to a chain of linked transactions. Conveyancing problems can occur when one person in the chain pulls out of their transaction or experiences some kind of delay. Unfortunately, there is often not a lot that you can do about chain breaks, especially if they’re caused by a transaction not directly related to yours. So, you may wish to communicate with your conveyancer and ensure you have a contingency plan in place in case any unavoidable chain breaks do occur.
Issues uncovered in property searches
Property searches, carried out by your conveyancer, can reveal various issues, including boundary disputes, planning restrictions, and environmental concerns. These can have an effect on the property’s value or suitability for the buyer.
As a buyer, you should thoroughly review the results of property searches, and seek legal advice on how to address any concerns. You should also be prepared to negotiate with the seller to adjust the purchase price or resolve the issues before completion if necessary. Sellers should be aware and potentially be prepared to negotiate should any such issues arise.
Property defects uncovered during surveys
Another fairly common conveyancing problem is defects in the property that are uncovered during the property survey. Most buyers choose to have a survey carried out on the property before exchange. These can uncover issues such as damp, mould, or structural problems which can impact the property’s value. This may delay or derail the sale while repairs or price negotiations are carried out.
Delays in mortgage approval
The process of securing a mortgage to buy a property can be lengthy. It’s common for delays to happen when there are issues with the lender’s assessment or documentation. As a buyer, applying for pre-approval before making an offer on a property is a good idea to help reduce the chance of issues occurring.
Conveyancing problems and a guide to the conveyancing process
The conveyancing process can be confusing, especially if it’s your first time as a buyer or seller. Our free and comprehensive guides are here to help, taking you through the entire process and equipping you with the knowledge you need to be prepared for this exciting time. Click the buttons below to download our separate guides for both buyers and sellers:
Guide to conveyancing for buyers:

Guide to conveyancing for sellers:
