Conveyancing

Buying and selling property

Whether you’re buying your first home, selling your tenth, or anything in between, our conveyancing solicitors are here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. 

We help thousands of people across the UK move every year – quickly, efficiently, and with clear communication from start to finish. 

What you can expect from us: 

• Clarity from the start. We take time to understand your goals and timeline, so we can spot potential delays before they happen. 
• Progress without the chasing. Our systems and team structure mean we keep things moving behind the scenes – without you needing to follow up. 
• Updates you don’t have to ask for. You’ll always know where things stand. 
• A service that flexes to fit you. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a portfolio landlord, or buying and selling at the same time, we adapt to your needs.

We’ve worked with every kind of buyer and seller – from people just stepping onto the ladder, to high-net-worth purchasers with multi-million-pound properties. Whoever you are, and wherever you’re headed, we’ll make sure the legal side of your move is one less thing to worry about. 

Property litigation solicitors

Disputes over property can be complex, time-consuming, and emotionally draining. Whether you’re a landlord, tenant, homeowner or developer, our property litigation team is here to help you resolve issues quickly, effectively and with minimal stress. 

We act on behalf of clients across the UK – individuals and organisations alike – on a wide range of residential and commercial disputes.

We can help with: 

• Neighbour and boundary disputes
• Rights of way, easements, and access issues 
• Restrictive covenants and right–to–light claims 
• Party wall matters 
• Adverse possession claims (both for and against) 
• Nuisance and trespass 
• Property development disputes and ransom strip litigation 
• Disagreements over option, overage or land contracts 
• Claims against property professionals (e.g. surveyors, builders, or solicitors) 
• Possession and eviction proceedings

A practical approach to resolving disputes 

Where possible, we’ll work to settle matters early through negotiation or alternative dispute resolution (ADR), including mediation and arbitration. This often leads to quicker, less costly outcomes than going to court. 

But when litigation is necessary, you’ll have a solicitor who’s ready to act swiftly and represent your interests with clarity and strength. We also work closely with specialist barristers when needed. 

From straightforward claims to complex development disputes, we provide tailored, strategic advice to get things resolved with minimal fuss and maximum clarity. 

Lease extensions and freehold purchases

If you own a leasehold flat or house, you may have the legal right to extend your lease or even buy your share of the building’s freehold. These rights are protected under the Leasehold Reform, Housing and Urban Development Act 1993 — but the process can be complex, with strict rules and timelines. 

At Setfords, our expert solicitors guide leaseholders through every step of the process, helping you protect your investment and secure the future of your home. 

We can help you: 

• Extend your lease 
• Buy the freehold of your home (individually or as a group through collective enfranchisement) 
• Vary the terms of an existing lease 
• Take over the management of your building

Whether you’re acting alone or with your neighbours, we’ll explain your rights clearly and help you avoid the pitfalls that can slow things down or add unnecessary costs. 

What to expect from us: 

• A free initial consultation to understand your situation 
• Clear, practical advice on the best route forward 
• Support with arranging valuations or surveys through our trusted partners 
• A dedicated lawyer with experience in both straightforward and complex leasehold matters

From first-time lease extensions to large-scale freehold acquisitions, we’ve helped hundreds of leaseholders take control of their homes — and we’d be happy to help you too. 

Advice on the Building Safety Act 2022

The Building Safety Act 2022 (BSA) introduced new rules to improve safety in certain residential buildings – particularly high-rise blocks. It can affect how quickly your sale or purchase moves forward, and in some cases, whether it can proceed at all. 

You might be affected if the building is: 

• At least 11 metres or five storeys tall 
• Comprised of at least two flats 
• Not fully owned by leaseholders

The rules are still relatively new – and not every conveyancing firm is comfortable dealing with them. At Setfords, many of our specialist lawyers are already helping buyers and sellers navigate BSA requirements, ensuring transactions progress as smoothly as possible. 

If you’re unsure whether the Building Safety Act affects your move, we’re here to advise and guide you. 

Buy-to-let conveyancing, done properly

Whether you’re purchasing your first rental property or adding to an established portfolio, you’ll want legal support that’s fast, thorough, and tailored to your goals. 

At Setfords, our conveyancing solicitors help both individuals and companies navigate the legal process with clarity and confidence. We can: 

• Assess the legal paperwork early to spot any red flags 
• Carry out essential searches and raise relevant enquiries 
• Prepare a clear report on title 
• Register your interest with HM Land Registry 
• Draft bespoke tenancy agreements

We’ll also flag key landlord responsibilities — including houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), Tenancy Deposit Schemes, and other legal obligations — so you’re informed and protected from day one. 

If you’re planning a buy-to-let purchase, we’re ready when you are. 

Remortgaging made easy

Whether you’re switching to a better rate or releasing equity, remortgaging doesn’t have to be a hassle. At Setfords, we make the legal side simple, so you can get it done quickly — and with no nasty surprises. 

We’ll guide you through the process, handle the paperwork, and keep things moving at pace. Want to know what it’ll cost? Get a fast, personalised quote in just a few clicks.

Buying or selling at auction

Auction sales move fast — and so do we. Whether you’re buying or selling, our experienced solicitors can handle everything from reviewing legal packs to finalising contracts, quickly and clearly. 

Our auction services include: 

• Fast-turnaround reports on title, contracts, and searches 
• Clear advice before the bidding begins
• Post-sale support, including stamp duty and Land Registry formalities

Auction deadlines don’t wait. We’ll help you stay ahead of them. 

Equity release

Equity release enables homeowners aged over 55 to unlock the value in their homes — but it’s a big decision, and getting the right legal advice is essential. 

At Setfords, our solicitors specialise in equity release, including lifetime mortgages and home reversion plans. We’ll explain how it all works, help you understand the risks and benefits, and make sure you’re fully informed before you sign anything. 

Because peace of mind is worth more than any lump sum.