AI in your firm: the tool is the last question, not the first
Summary
The article argues that conveyancing firms should approach AI adoption from existing professional and data protection duties, rather than starting with tool selection. It highlights the SRA’s warning notice and sets out five core obligations: accountability, security, lawful basis, processor governance and professional duty.
Why it matters
Residential property surveyors working alongside conveyancers should be aware that AI use remains subject to strict confidentiality, data handling and professional oversight expectations. The article reinforces that firms need controlled processes and auditability, which may affect how property information is shared and managed across transactions.
Key points
- AI does not reduce or replace a solicitor’s responsibility under the SRA warning notice.
- Firms should start with duties and controls, not vendor selection.
- Client data must be handled through secure, visible and approved systems.
- AI vendors are treated as processors and require written agreements and assessment.
- Human judgement and supervision must remain central to professional decision-making.
This is an RPSA summary of a publicly available article. The full content remains with the original publisher.
