New-build homes in Kent
New Build Conveyancing in Kent
New build conveyancing is the legal work to buy a newly built home from a developer. Developers usually set tight deadlines, often 28 days to exchange, so you need a solicitor who is ready to go. They check the contract, the warranty, planning and any estate charges.
- SRA or CLC-regulated firms only
- Fixed fees, with no-sale-no-fee options
- Free to use, no obligation
New build at a glance
What’s involved
What’s different about new build conveyancing?
Buying from a developer is faster-paced than a normal purchase. Your solicitor will:
- Review the developer’s contract and any special conditions
- Check planning permission and building regulations sign-off
- Confirm the new-home warranty is in place
- Check roads, drains and estate charges
- Make sure your mortgage offer lasts until the build is finished
Large developments around Ashford, Ebbsfleet and Sittingbourne mean Kent firms handle new-build purchases regularly.
Step by step
New build conveyancing, step by step
The timetable is driven by the developer.
- 1
Reserve and instruct
You pay a reservation fee and instruct your solicitor straight away.
- 2
Contract pack
The developer’s solicitor sends the contract, plans and specification.
- 3
Searches and checks
Your solicitor checks planning, the warranty, roads and drainage.
- 4
Report and mortgage
Your solicitor reports, and checks your mortgage offer lasts long enough.
- 5
Exchange
Usually within the developer’s deadline, often 28 days.
- 6
Notice to complete
When the home is finished, the developer gives notice, usually 10 working days.
- 7
Completion
The money is sent and you collect your keys.
Timeline
How long does a new build purchase take?
Exchange often within 28 days of reservation; completion when the home is finished.
- Reserve
- Contract pack
- Checks
- Report
- Exchange
- Notice
- Complete
Costs
What new build conveyancing costs
Similar to a normal purchase, sometimes a little more for the extra checks.
| Cost | Typical amount | What it is |
|---|---|---|
| Legal fee (fixed, freehold) | £900–£1,500 + VAT | The solicitor’s own work |
| Local authority search | £120–£300 | Set by the district council |
| Drainage and water search | £50–£70 | Southern Water or South East Water |
| Environmental and flood search | £50–£70 | Important near the coast |
| Land Registry fee | Depends on price | HM Land Registry scale fee |
| ID and anti-money-laundering checks | £10–£25 | Per buyer |
| Bank transfer fee | £20–£50 | Sending funds on completion |
| Stamp Duty Land Tax | Depends on price | Paid to HMRC, not the solicitor |
Local knowledge
New build in Kent: what to check
Common questions on Kent developments.
Tight deadlines
Developers expect quick exchanges. Pick a solicitor who can start immediately.
Estate management charges
Many new estates have yearly charges for shared areas. Your solicitor explains them.
Warranty
Check the home has a recognised new-home warranty, usually 10 years.
Unadopted roads and drains
Your solicitor checks they are due to be adopted by the council or water company.
Leasehold terms
Some new-build flats and houses are leasehold. Check the ground rent carefully.
Mortgage offer expiry
If the build runs late, your offer may need extending.
Avoiding delays
Common delays and how to avoid them
Most hold-ups are avoidable with a little preparation.
Be prepared
Documents you’ll need
Have these ready when you instruct your solicitor.
- Photo ID and proof of address
- Reservation form
- Mortgage offer
- Proof of deposit funds
- Any scheme paperwork
- Developer’s sales contact
- Gift letters, if used
- Your target moving date
Related services
Related services
New homes in a Kent town
CanterburyHerne BayWhitstableMargateRamsgateAshfordFolkestoneDoverDealBroadstairsFavershamAll Kent towns →
Why do developers set exchange deadlines?
To keep sales on schedule. Most ask you to exchange within about 28 days of reserving, so instruct your solicitor straight away.
What if the build is delayed?
Completion happens when the home is finished. Your solicitor checks the contract’s long-stop date and whether your mortgage offer needs extending.
Do I need a survey on a new build?
A snagging survey before completion is sensible to spot unfinished work while the developer can still fix it.
What is an estate management charge?
A yearly charge for maintaining shared areas like roads, green spaces and play areas. Your solicitor explains the terms.
Can I use the developer’s recommended solicitor?
You can, but you don’t have to. Choosing your own independent firm is often a good idea.
Official guidance on new build conveyancing: Stamp Duty Land Tax (GOV.UK) · Buying or selling your home (GOV.UK) · HM Land Registry · SRA register of solicitors
Fees and timescales checked for Kent · Last updated September 2026
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