Whether you’re selling for the first time or have been through the process before, one of the most effective ways to avoid delays is to get your documents ready from the very start.
From legal ownership to energy certificates, having the right paperwork in place can help speed things up, prevent hold-ups, and give your buyer greater confidence from the outset.
Related: Start your Online Valuation
The importance of being prepared
Selling your home involves more than just finding a buyer. Solicitors, surveyors, lenders and agents all rely on timely access to the correct information. If any documentation is missing or delayed, it can hold up the process or even put your sale at risk.
The more organised you are, the better your chances of keeping the transaction on track, especially if you’re part of a chain.
Which documents will you need?
Proof of ID and address
Before the process begins, your estate agent and solicitor will carry out identity checks to comply with anti-money laundering regulations. Be prepared to show:
- One form of photo ID (such as a driving licence or passport)
- One document confirming your current address (such as a utility bill or bank statement dated within the last three months)
Title deeds or Land Registry documents
These confirm you are the legal owner of the property. If your home is registered with HM Land Registry, your solicitor can usually retrieve this online. For unregistered properties, which are more common with older homes, original paper deeds may be required, and locating them can take time if they’ve been misplaced.
Related: When is the right time to accept an offer on your property?
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
You’ll need a valid EPC before marketing your home. This shows how energy efficient your property is, with a rating from A to G. EPCs are valid for 10 years, but if yours has expired, we can help arrange a new one. A higher rating can often be a selling point for buyers.
Property information form (TA6)
This document gives buyers a clear picture of the property’s condition and history. It includes details such as:
- Boundaries and maintenance responsibilities
- Neighbour disputes
- Past building work
- Utility suppliers
- Parking rights
- Planning permissions and warranties
It’s essential to be accurate and thorough, as incomplete or incorrect answers can lead to delays or legal complications later on.
Fittings and contents form (TA10)
This outlines what is included in the sale, from white goods and curtains to sheds and light fittings. Agreeing on this up front helps avoid confusion between buyer and seller, particularly near completion.
Mortgage information
If your property has an outstanding mortgage, your solicitor will request a redemption statement from your lender. This confirms how much is left to repay and allows for the balance to be settled on completion day. If you’ve used a Help to Buy: Equity loan or have a second charge, that will also need to be included.
Certificates for alterations or improvements
If you’ve carried out structural work, you’ll need to provide documentation proving it was done legally and safely. This may include:
- Planning permission (if required)
- Building regulations approval
- Completion certificates
- FENSA certificates for any window installations
Missing these documents could raise concerns for the buyer’s surveyor or lender and may slow the sale down.
Warranties and guarantees
Any guarantees or certificates showing recent work or installations will reassure your buyer that the property has been well-maintained. These might include:
- Boiler warranties
- NHBC certificates for newer homes
- Electrical installation certificates
- Damp proofing guarantees
- Leasehold documents (if applicable)
If you’re selling a leasehold property, such as a flat, you’ll need to gather:
- A copy of the lease
- Service charge and ground rent information
- Details of the freeholder or managing agent
- Buildings insurance
- Any planned maintenance or major works
This information can take time to collect, especially if you’re waiting on replies from a managing agent, so it’s worth getting started as soon as possible.
What if you don’t have everything?
If you’re missing paperwork, don’t worry, your solicitor can often help track down missing documents or request copies. But it’s worth remembering that this can take time, which may cause delays if you leave it too late in the process.
Related: Why is now still a good time to sell?
Documents you need to sell
Here’s a quick reference checklist:
- Proof of ID and address
- Title deeds or Land Registry documents
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
- Property information form (TA6)
- Fittings and contents form (TA10)
- Mortgage and lender details
- Planning and building regulation certificates
- Warranties and guarantees
- Leasehold paperwork (if applicable)
Simplify your sale
At Belvoir, we understand how important it is to make your home sale as smooth as possible. Getting the right paperwork in place is one of the easiest ways to take control of your move. We guide sellers through every stage of the process, from preparing your documents to completing the sale, with clear, honest advice.
Whether you’re ready to list or just considering your next steps, speak to your local Belvoir team for expert support from day one.
