What Documents Do I Need to Sell My House

What Documents Do I Need to Sell My House

Selling your home is a major financial and emotional undertaking, and having the right paperwork in place is essential for a smooth transaction. From proving ownership to showing compliance with planning laws and safety standards, documentation plays a vital role at every stage of the sale. Missing or incomplete paperwork can delay the process, raise legal issues or even cause a sale to fall through.

This article explains exactly what documents you will need to sell your house in the UK, why each one matters, and how to prepare them in advance. Whether you are working with an estate agent or managing the sale privately, being organised with your paperwork can speed up conveyancing and give potential buyers confidence in your home.

Proof of Identity

Before anything else, you will need to provide valid proof of identity. Solicitors, conveyancers and estate agents are required by law to confirm your identity under anti-money laundering regulations. This usually involves a combination of photo ID, such as a passport or driving licence, and proof of address, such as a utility bill or bank statement dated within the last three months.

Having these documents ready at the start helps to avoid delays later on. If you are selling on behalf of someone else, such as through power of attorney or probate, you will need to provide the appropriate legal authority along with your identification.

Title Deeds or Proof of Ownership

Title deeds are one of the most important documents when selling a house. They prove that you are the legal owner of the property and confirm any rights or restrictions associated with the land. Most properties are now registered with HM Land Registry, which means your solicitor can download the official copy of the title and associated documents online. If the property is unregistered, you may need to produce the original paper deeds, which are often held by your mortgage lender or stored in a solicitor’s archive.

The title will also show boundaries, rights of way, easements and any legal charges against the property. Buyers and their solicitors will review this information carefully, so it is essential that it is accurate and up to date.

Property Information Form (TA6)

This is a standard form that you will be asked to complete once you instruct a solicitor or conveyancer. It provides key details about the property, such as who maintains boundaries, whether there have been any disputes with neighbours, what services are connected and whether the home is in a conservation area. You will also be asked about warranties, building work, insurance and access arrangements.

Completing this form honestly and in detail helps to prevent misunderstandings and legal disputes after the sale. If you are unsure about a particular question, your solicitor can help you provide a suitable response.

Fittings and Contents Form (TA10)

This document outlines what is included in the sale. It lists everything from kitchen appliances to garden sheds and curtain poles. The aim is to clarify which items will remain in the property and which will be taken by the seller. This can prevent disputes on moving day and allows buyers to understand exactly what they are purchasing.

The form must be completed and agreed by both parties before exchange of contracts. If you change your mind about what you are leaving behind, it is important to update the form and notify the buyer’s solicitor.

Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

An Energy Performance Certificate is a legal requirement when selling a residential property in the UK. It provides information about the home’s energy efficiency and includes a rating from A to G, along with recommendations for improvement. The certificate must be commissioned before the property is marketed, and a valid EPC must be available to prospective buyers.

An EPC is valid for ten years, so you may already have one on file. If not, you will need to arrange an inspection by an accredited assessor. Estate agents usually offer to organise this on your behalf, but you can also book one independently.

Planning Permissions and Building Regulation Certificates

If you have carried out any alterations, extensions or structural works to the property, you will need to provide evidence that the correct permissions were obtained. This includes planning permission, building regulation approval and completion certificates. Examples include loft conversions, conservatories, garage conversions, electrical rewiring and boiler installations.

Lack of paperwork for major works can lead to delays or even cause a buyer to pull out. If you do not have the certificates, your solicitor may suggest an indemnity insurance policy to protect the buyer against future enforcement, but this is not always acceptable. It is best to gather these documents early and discuss any missing paperwork with your conveyancer.

Warranties and Guarantees

If your home includes items that are still under warranty, such as windows, boilers or new builds, you should provide copies of the warranty documents. These offer buyers reassurance and can increase the appeal of your property. Common examples include NHBC warranties for newly built homes, FENSA certificates for double glazing and Gas Safe certificates for boiler work.

Original invoices, service records and manuals can also be helpful and show that the property has been well maintained. Presenting these in an organised folder can make a strong impression during viewings or surveys.

Mortgage Details

If you have an existing mortgage on the property, you will need to supply details to your solicitor, including the lender’s name, account number and current balance. The solicitor will contact the lender to obtain a redemption statement showing how much is owed and arrange for the mortgage to be repaid on completion. If your home is mortgaged jointly, all parties must agree to the sale and provide identification.

In some cases, particularly with equity release or shared ownership, additional documents may be needed to confirm the terms of the loan and any conditions for sale.

Leasehold Information (if applicable)

If the property is leasehold, such as a flat or maisonette, there are additional documents required. These include a copy of the lease, details of the freeholder or managing agent, service charge accounts, ground rent statements and building insurance certificates. Your solicitor will request a leasehold information pack, which the managing agent may charge for.

Buyers will want to understand the remaining lease length, future costs and any restrictions on use or subletting. Providing accurate and comprehensive leasehold information early in the process can help keep the sale on track.

Final Thoughts

Selling a house involves more than a handshake and a for sale sign. From legal proof of ownership to evidence of compliance and clear communication of what is included, the documents you provide are essential to building trust and ensuring the sale proceeds smoothly. By gathering everything in advance and working with a qualified solicitor, you can avoid unnecessary delays and give buyers the confidence they need to proceed.

A well-prepared seller can help move the process from instruction to completion with minimal stress, while also protecting their own interests. Whether it is your first time selling or part of a wider property portfolio, knowing what documents you need is the first step toward a successful transaction.