Upfront information is coming. The real question is whether the industry is ready for it.
Summary
The article argues that the property sector has long recognised the need for earlier disclosure of key transaction information, but operational readiness remains the central challenge. It links current government reform proposals and recent guidance changes to a broader shift towards upfront information, while noting persistent concerns about liability, workflow, and implementation.
Why it matters
For residential property surveyors, earlier and more structured disclosure could affect the timing, scope, and reliability of information they are asked to provide or verify. It also has implications for transaction risk, building safety and leasehold reporting, and the coordination of information across the conveyancing chain.
Key points
- Upfront information is presented as a response to long-standing transaction delays and fall-throughs.
- The article references the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008, NTSELAT guidance, and the Law Society’s TA6 6th Edition.
- MHCLG’s 2025 reform proposals would require disclosure of items such as tenure, EPC rating, title information, leasehold details, searches, planning, flood risk, and building safety information.
- The article says the main issue is not policy intent but whether firms’ systems and workflows can support earlier disclosure.
- Auction-style transactions are cited as evidence that earlier information can improve completion rates and timescales.
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