Selling your home might feel like drowning in paperwork, but understanding what documents you need from the start can transform this process into a manageable checklist. Our comprehensive guide details the essential paperwork you'll need for a smooth house sale.
Key Takeaways
Proof of Identity:
Provide your passport or driving license for identity verification.
Also, proof of address (e.g., bank statement or utility bill).
Property Title Deeds:
Prove your ownership of the property.
Retrieve them from your solicitor or mortgage company.
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC):
Check if you already have one (valid for 10 years).
Obtain an EPC if needed before marketing your property.
Copy of Lease (if Leasehold):
Essential for leasehold properties.
Include lease details and terms.
Fittings and Contents Form (TA10):
Specify what fixtures and fittings are included in the sale.
Clarify what stays and what goes.
Property Information Form (TA6):
Disclose essential property details to potential buyers.
Covers boundaries, disputes, and planning permissions.
Building Regulations Certificates:
Provide evidence of compliance with building regulations.
Include certificates for any alterations or extensions.
Warranties and Guarantees:
Share any warranties (e.g., for appliances) with buyers.
What documents do I need to sell my house?
From recent utility bills to leasehold documents, we have compiled a list of everything you’re going to need:
1. Proof of ownership: Title Deeds and property documents
Title Deeds prove you own the property, and they're essential for any sale. If you don't have a physical copy, speak to your solicitor or mortgage lender to access the official deeds. These documents outline your property's boundaries, rights of way and any restrictions on the land.
2. Proof of identity
Provide a valid photo ID, either a passport or driving licence, to verify your identity. You'll also need to show proof of address with a bank statement or utility bill.
3. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates the energy efficiency and CO2 impact of your home and is a legal requirement when you come to sell it. Properties are registered for 10 years, so you may already have one, but don't forget to check that it's still valid. If not, arrange for a new assessment from a government-accredited energy assessor.
4. Property Information Form (TA6)
As the seller, it's your responsibility to fill out a TA6 form. It provides information about your home to potential buyers, including property boundaries, disputes with neighbours, flooding history, structural changes and parking arrangements. Be honest and thorough – inaccurate information could lead to legal issues later.
5. Fittings and Contents Form (TA10)
A TA10 clearly states what's included in the sale and what you'll take with you. From built-in wardrobes to light fittings, being specific helps avoid misunderstandings and disputes. List everything you're willing to include in the sale and what's available for separate negotiation.
6. Leasehold documents
If you're selling a leasehold property (you have ownership of the property for a fixed term but not the land on which it stands), you'll need the following documents:
• The Lease Agreement: This outlines the terms and conditions of the lease, including its duration, ground rent and any restrictions.
• The Management Information Pack: Sourced from the managing agent or freeholder (owner of the property and land), the pack includes details about service charges, ground rent, buildings insurance and any major planned works.
You'll only need these documents if you're selling a leasehold property.
7. Mortgage details
If you have a mortgage, gather your most recent mortgage statement and your lender's details. Your solicitor will need this information to obtain the redemption figure, which is the amount required to pay off your mortgage when you sell.
8. Planning permission and building regulation certificates
You'll need to provide evidence that you've complied with building regulations. If you've made any alterations to your property, like an extension or conversion, you must provide the relevant planning permission and building regulation certificates.
9. Guarantees and warranties
Collect any guarantees or warranties for work carried out on your property. This might include damp-proofing, timber treatment, electrical work or new appliances. Valid guarantees can be a selling point and provide peace of mind to buyers.
10. Recent utility bills: proof of payments and services
Keep your recent utility bills handy. These prove that all the services are connected and that all payments are up to date. They help your buyer's solicitor verify the property's running costs and ensure there are no outstanding debts attached to the property.
Explore our range of brand-new homes across the UK and discover our unique homebuying offers to help you move. Start your journey today with David Wilson Homes.
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