When you’re buying or selling a home, you’re already juggling viewings, mortgage decisions, and paperwork. On top of that, the legal side of things can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to costs. One of the key questions is when exactly do you pay your conveyancer?
Knowing the payment stages helps you stay in control, plan your finances, and avoid last-minute surprises. Find out how and when conveyancing fees typically come into play.
How Conveyancers Handle Their Fees
Your conveyancer does more than just oversee contracts. They handle searches, liaise with other parties, and help ensure the transfer of property is done legally and efficiently. Because the process stretches across several weeks, so do the payments.
You might be asked for an upfront amount before anything starts. This is often called a deposit or a retainer. It’s usually a small percentage of the full fee and helps cover early tasks like verifying your ID, opening your case file, and ordering property searches. If you’re getting an online conveyancing quote, it should make this stage clear.
Key Payment Points in the Process
Most of the legal work takes place between the time your offer is accepted and when you exchange contracts. During this period, you’ll probably pay for third-party disbursements. These are costs your conveyancer pays on your behalf, such as Land Registry searches or bank transfer fees.
Later, as the sale nears completion, your conveyancer will likely send a final invoice. This will include the remaining legal fee and any unpaid disbursements. It must be settled before the transaction finishes, as your solicitor cannot release the funds or finalise the deal without payment.
Do All Firms Work the Same Way?
Not exactly. While many follow this staged approach, some firms might request full payment upfront, especially for fixed-fee services. Others may break the payments into two halves: one at the start and one before completion.
What matters is clarity. A trustworthy conveyancer will provide a clear breakdown of costs and timings from the outset. If you’re comparing services, always check what’s included in the quote and whether disbursements are billed separately.
What If the Sale Falls Through?
This is a concern for many buyers and sellers. If your transaction collapses before exchange, you’re unlikely to get a full refund. The initial deposit usually covers work already completed, like drafting legal documents or conducting searches.
However, some firms offer a no move, no fee option. This means if your sale or purchase doesn’t complete, you won’t owe the full fee, though disbursements may still need to be paid. Always read the small print before signing any agreement.
Your Payments Will Depend On Your Conveyancer
Paying a conveyancer isn’t a one-time task. It’s a series of carefully timed steps tied to your property journey. From early deposits to final settlements, knowing when and why you’re paying helps you stay in control.
The best way to keep things smooth is to choose a conveyancer who’s upfront about fees, communicates clearly, and supports you every step of the way. Being well-informed not only protects your money but also ensures your transaction stays on track.
