Find a conveyancing solicitor in Birmingham

Birmingham's industrial and canal-side history means your conveyancer may need to run additional searches beyond the standard local authority check . This includes a mining search if the property sits in a former coalfield area, a canal or waterway search near the city's historic network, and a Chancel Repair Liability check. If you're buying in or near a conservation area or a listed building, expect an additional planning search too. Ask your conveyancer early on which of these apply to your specific property.

It can. Large parts of Birmingham are undergoing regeneration, from the HS2 works around Curzon Street to wider city-centre redevelopment schemes. Your conveyancer should check whether the property falls within a compulsory purchase order or regeneration zone, as this can affect searches and timescales. If you're buying a leasehold flat in a city-centre high-rise, they'll also need to confirm whether building safety documentation (such as an EWS1 certificate) is required before a lender will approve your mortgage.

Typically 8–12 weeks, though it's worth asking prospective solicitors directly about current turnaround — Birmingham City Council's local search service has faced well-documented delays following the council's 2023 financial emergency notice, so build in extra time or ask about indemnity insurance as an alternative

Likely, yes. Flats in buildings over 11 metres, common across the B1/B2 city-centre postcodes, need an EWS1 fire safety certificate before most lenders will approve a mortgage. Ask your conveyancer to confirm whether this applies before you commit.

Both can legally handle your property transaction. A solicitor is qualified in general law and regulated by the SRA; a licensed conveyancer specialises exclusively in property law and is regulated by the CLC. For a straightforward move, either is a good choice, and what matters more is their experience with the specific property type you're buying or selling. Read our property solicitor vs conveyancer guide for a more detailed overview.

Yes. Even without a mortgage lender to satisfy, you still need someone to handle searches, contracts, and the legal transfer of ownership. Skipping this step leaves you exposed to risks a survey alone won't catch.

They handle local authority searches, review the contract and title, liaise with the other side’s solicitor, manage the exchange of contracts, transfer funds, and register the change of ownership with the Land Registry.