What Documents Do You Need When Selling A Home?

Selling a home is a complicated process that involves a lot of paperwork. Preparing certain documents can be mandatory, while others may simply be useful for the buyer. This post details some of the documents you’ll need to prepare and what they involve. 

What Documents Do You Need When Selling A Home?

Title deed

This is probably the most important document because it proves legal ownership of the property. It also includes a map that shows the exact boundaries, as well as any rights of way and easements. You should have been given the title deed when initially becoming the owner of the property. Can’t find it? Don’t worry – you can apply for a copy from the Land Registry.

Proof of identity

Estate agents, mortgage lenders and solicitors will all ask for proof of identity at some point in the process. The two most commonly accepted proof of identity documents are a passport and a driver’s licence – however, there may be other documents you can use including household bills. 

PIQ (Property Information Questionnaire)

All property owners must complete this form when selling a property. It provides various information for the buyer including details about the property’s boundaries, planning permission and building regulation information, information about utilities, information about the condition of the property and information about any ongoing disputes with neighbours. You can find this form on the PropertyMark website.

Fillings and Fittings form

This is another form that is usually included alongside a PIQ. It outlines exactly which fixtures and fittings are included with the property in the sale. This could include everything from curtain rails to washing machines. This ensures that the buyer knows exactly what they will receive when buying the house.

ID1 form

An ID1 form is a specific form that is required to verify the identity of the seller to prevent fraud. It is most likely to be required if the seller is not present to sign property transfer documents. A solicitor will supply this document and submit it for you. 

EPC (Energy Performance Certificate)

Before putting your property on the market, you must obtain an EPC. This tells buyers how energy efficient your home is on a scale of A (very efficient) to G (inefficient). To receive an EPC, an accredited assessor must survey your home. 

Leasehold information pack

Selling a leasehold property? You’ll need to provide a leasehold information pack to the buyer. This document outlines how many years are left on the lease, the ground rent fees and any service charge fees. You can ask your freeholder/managing agent to provide you with this information pack.

Warranty documents

If you moved into a new building and you’ve only been in the property a few years, your property may still be under a warranty. In this case, a buyer will want to receive any warranty documents so that they can be covered. Dig out this document if you still have it.

Any other documents?

Other documents may be recommended but not mandatory. These include:

• Planning permission documents related to recent home improvements
• Gas safety certificates or electrical safety certificates if you’ve recently had an inspection
• Structural survey documents if you’ve recently had a full survey done
• FENSAA or CERTASS certificates for newly installed windows

Assemble these documents if you have them to give to a buyer so that you can show your property meets various standards.