Fixed price conveyancing

Fixed price conveyancing is an option offered by some property-law firms. When a firm agrees to fix the price they charge for conveyancing, in theory, they cannot then charge more than this price.

However, in practice, there are situations where firms can charge more than the agreed fixed price; for example, if a firm ends up doing far more work for a client then they envisaged doing. This may arise because there were problems with the seller’s title or other associated problems. If a firm wishes to reserve the right to charge more than agreed fixed fee, they should put a clause to this effect in their contract with you. Make sure you read any small print very carefully.

Whether such clauses are legally enforceable will depend on a number of things. If the firm did not bring the clause to your attention before they agreed to the fixed fee then it may not be enforceable. If it is not enforceable, you are within your rights to pay the firm no more than the original agreed fee.

There are advantages of fixed price conveyancing, namely that you have the peace of mind of knowing that your legal costs cannot exceed an agreed amount.

However, there are also disadvantages of fixed price conveyancing. If a firm knows they are working for a fixed fee, they may place a blanket limit on the number of hours they spend on a transaction. This could result in a reduction of the quality of service received.

If you would like to obtain legal advice and information on fixed price conveyancing, Contact Law can put you in touch with a local specialist Property Solicitor free of charge. So, if you have any questions or would like our help in finding local Property Solicitors please call us on 0800 1777 162 or complete the web-form above.

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