What Are Disbursements? 

When buying a property, it’s important to understand that your solicitor’s legal fees aren’t the only costs involved. Disbursements are third-party expenses that your solicitor pays on your behalf to move the process forward. 

Think of these as pass-through costs: they’re separate from the solicitor’s own charges for their time and are essential for any legal property transaction. 

Common disbursements 

Property search pack (£250-£450 at the time of writing): This is a bundle of essential checks required by most mortgage lenders. 

• Local Authority Search – identifies planning permissions, building regulations, and future local infrastructure plans (like new roads) 

• Drainage and Water Search – confirms the property is connected to mains water and sewer systems 

• Environmental Search – checks for risks like historic contaminated land, flood zones, or subsidence 

Land Registry fees (£20-£500+): This is a mandatory fee paid to HM Land Registry to register you as the new legal owner. At the time of writing, most first-time buyers pay approximately £150 for homes priced between £200,001 and £500,000, provided the application is submitted through the digital portal. 

Digital ID and AML checks (£10-£20 per person): In line with current security standards, solicitors use biometric Digital ID verification to prevent fraud and satisfy Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations. This small fee is paid to the software providers who verify your documents instantly. 

Bank transfer fees (£25-£50): Also known as Telegraphic Transfer fees. This covers the bank’s charge for the secure, same-day transfer of funds to the seller’s solicitor on completion day. 

Why are disbursements necessary? 

Disbursements ensure that the property transfer is both safe and legally compliant. They protect you as a buyer by highlighting potential issues – such as a planned highway through your back garden or a hidden flood risk, before you’re legally committed to the purchase. 

For more on how these checks fit into the buying process, see our guide on the stages of buying a house for first-time buyers. 

Budgeting for success 

While disbursements are standard, the exact costs can vary based on: 

• Location – some local authorities charge significantly more for searches than others 

• Property type – leasehold properties often incur additional disbursements, such as Notice of Assignment fees paid to a landlord or management company 

• Additional checks – if you’re buying in a historic coal mining area or near a tin mine, your solicitor may need to order a specialist Mining Search 

For a full breakdown of what to budget for, see our guide on how much conveyancing costs for first-time buyers. 

Final Thoughts 

Disbursements are a necessary part of buying a home, covering the essential third-party due diligence that makes your ownership secure. At Setfords, we believe in total transparency. We provide a full, itemised breakdown of all anticipated disbursements upfront, so you can plan your budget with confidence and avoid any last-minute surprises. 

Get your free conveyancing quote today.

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