Essential Paperwork for Selling a House in the East Midlands 

Every owner has to supply certain essential paperwork when selling a house. However, the complete list could differ significantly if you are selling a restored period property in a conservation village, a new build, or a leasehold property. 

You might be able to locate every document quickly and easily, but that’s not always the case. While copies can often be sourced, this takes time, so it’s best to be prepared before the sale is in full swing. Before selling a property in Northamptonshire, Leicestershire, Rutland or Lincolnshire, read our checklist outlining the essential paperwork needed for selling a house in the East Midlands. 

Paperwork needed to sell a house  

1. Basic identity documents  

Expect to provide proof of identity to your estate agent, mortgage lender and your conveyancer or solicitor as part of anti-money laundering checks. It’s usual to provide photo ID (passport or photo driving licence) and proof of address (a bank statement or utility bill). 

2. Title deeds to the house  

The title deeds proving that you own the property would have been given to you when you bought your home, or held by your solicitor or mortgage lender. If you can’t locate them, request a copy of the title deeds from Land Registry for £7. 

3. Legal forms (TA6 & TA10)  

When you sell your home, your solicitor will issue you with a TA10 form and TA6 form to complete. The TA6 Fittings and Contents Form outlines whether fitted wardrobes, light fittings, shelves, curtains and other fixtures and fittings are included in the sale, to avoid any miscommunication or assumptions. The TA6 Property Information Form confirms boundaries, disputes, proposals for development, and details of alterations.  

4. Mortgage documentation  

Locate your mortgage documentation to provide to the conveyancer. You should also refer to it to establish whether you will be liable for any charges when selling, and how much equity you have. 

5. Planning Permission notices  

If you have had building work done, you will need to provide planning permission to prove that it was authorised. You should also provide party wall agreements, and perhaps Conservation Area Consent and Listed Building Consent if you live in one of the East Midlands’ period properties.  

6. Building Regulations Certificates   

Ensure you have the Building Regulations Certificate and completion certificates to give buyers confidence that the work was carried out safely, if this applies to your property. 

7. Window certificates (CERTASS & FENSA)  

If you’ve had any windows fitted in the property, you should provide the CERTASS or FENSA certificates you were given by the installer. These indicate to the buyer that they comply with building regulations. 

8. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)  

Sellers are legally required to have an Energy Performance Certificate to market the property, to inform potential buyers how energy efficient the property is. EPCs are valid for 10 years, but if you don’t have one, your estate agent can help you find an accredited assessor. 

9. Gas & Electrical Safety Certificates  

It’s recommended to provide an electrical Installation Condition Report to reassure potential buyers, and you’re legally required to provide a Part P Building Regulation Certificate for electrical wiring alterations completed since 2005. Though it’s only a legal requirement for rental properties, it’s also a good idea to provide a gas safety certificate and boiler service record.  

10. Leasehold paperwork (if relevant)  

If you’re selling a leasehold property, the conveyancer will give you TA7 Leasehold Information Form, then pass your completed form to the buyer’s solicitor. You must also provide a copy of the lease – if you can’t locate it, request an official copy from Land Registry. You should also supply documentation covering service charges, shares certificates, and notice of upcoming works or potential safety concerns that have been identifies. 

11. New build certificates (if relevant) 

When selling a new build home, you should provide the new build warranty such as the NHBC certificate to the buyer. If you can’t locate it, all is not lost – you can request a copy from NHBC. 

12. Further guarantees and warranties  

The guarantees and warranties you need will be different for every seller, depending on factors such as what work you’ve had done at the property. These could be for certain appliances that you plan to include in the sale. 

How long should I keep paperwork after selling a house?  

It’s generally recommended to keep mortgage statements and documentation on insurance, warranties, planning permission and so on for 6 years after you sell the property. If it’s a rental or commercial property, it’s safer to retain property sale documents for at least 7 years for tax purposes.  

Property sales can take time, but assembling the paperwork you need in advance can avert delays or uncertainty. If you are planning to sell a property in the East Midlands, we can offer guidance on what’s required, from the cost of selling your house to downsizing strategies and the best rural places to live. Contact us today to discuss selling your house in Market Harborough, Uppingham, Wymondham, Oakham or Stamford.