The rules around buying or selling a home often change, and protecting your family and property is increasingly important. Paul Reynolds, Partner in Residential Conveyancing at Dutton Gregory Solicitors, deciphers some of the most common questions asked.
What is Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT)?
"This is tax payable to HMRC when you buy a property. The amount depends on whether you have owned a property before (if not you may qualify to claim first time buyer relief) and whether the property is your only/your main home. If you own a second property, a 3% surcharge may be payable. We advise reading the HMRC guidelines online, or call a solicitor to find out more."
How do I know which boundary I own/am responsible for?
"First, check or ask a solicitor to check the title deeds, which tells us about the 'T' and 'H' marks. 'T' marks show that the boundary would be your responsibility. 'H' marks mean party boundary. Next, we check whether any covenants (promises) have been imposed - if so, you can be responsible for repair or maintenance of a boundary. If no information is found, other rules may apply."
I'm worried about my property being targeted by fraudsters. How can I protect against this?
"Some properties are more vulnerable to fraud than others, such as properties which are empty or tenanted. The Land Registry have a monitoring service (online), which offers more information. You can also apply for a restriction to be noted on your title deed, preventing the Land Registry from registering a sale or mortgage of the property, unless a conveyancer or solicitor certified that the application was made by you."
Paul is a leading expert in Residential Property, and Partner at Dutton Gregory Solicitors. If you are buying or selling a house, get in touch for a quote.
Call 01202 315 005 or email contact@duttongregory.co.uk. You can also visit www.duttongregory.co.uk.
