What searches are required, and why they matter
Property searches are an essential part of the home-buying process, giving buyers critical information about the property’s background and surrounding area. These searches help uncover potential issues that could affect the property’s value, safety, or suitability. In this guide, we’ll explain the most common types of searches, why they’re important, and what buyers and sellers need to know.
1. Local authority searches
Local authority searches provide information about the property’s legal standing and surrounding area, helping to identify any potential restrictions or issues:
Planning and building control: This search reveals if any planning permissions or building regulations apply to the property. It can also show nearby developments that could impact the area in the future.
Environmental health concerns: Some local authority searches include information on environmental health concerns, such as contaminated land or nearby hazardous waste.
Road and rail proposals: Buyers will learn of any proposed infrastructure changes, such as new roads or railways, that may affect the property in the future.
2. Environmental searches
Environmental searches highlight risks from natural and human-made hazards, providing crucial information about the property’s safety:
Flood risk: This search identifies flood zones and assesses the likelihood of flooding, which can affect insurance premiums and future property safety.
Land contamination: Historical land use, such as factories or waste dumps, may have left contamination in the soil. An environmental search will reveal if this is a concern.
Subsidence risk: If the area has a history of subsidence, this search can indicate potential risks to the property’s foundation and stability.
3. Water and drainage searches
Water and drainage searches focus on utilities and infrastructure that may affect the property:
Sewerage and drainage: This search checks if the property is connected to the public sewer system and identifies the location of any water pipes. Knowing this can help with future maintenance or renovations.
Water supply rights: It confirms that the property has a legal right to water supply and identifies any potential water supply issues in the area.
4. Additional optional searches
Depending on the location and property type, additional searches may be beneficial:
Chancel repair liability: Some properties may be subject to an ancient law requiring owners to contribute to local church repairs. This search checks if the property is affected.
Mining searches: In areas with a history of mining, a mining search can identify potential ground stability issues caused by past mining activities. This is particularly common in South Wales, for example.
Infrastructure and energy searches: In areas close to new energy projects (e.g., wind farms or HS2 rail developments), these searches help identify any planned projects that could impact the property.
Why property searches matter
Property searches help protect both the buyer and seller:
Uncovering potential issues: Searches reveal critical information that could influence the buyer’s decision, such as flood risks or future development plans.
Providing negotiation leverage: If a search uncovers an issue, buyers may request a price reduction or specific conditions to address it before completing the purchase. Open Moove provides the option for sellers to purchase their own searches, putting them one step ahead of the game!
Ensuring informed decisions: Searches give buyers confidence, helping them feel assured that they’re making a well-informed investment. Through Open Moove we encourage for searches to be bought and in motion the week of purchase, ensuring that you as the home mover have an additional layer of security with your buyer's investment.
What Open Moove Suggests Next
Open Moove recommends these steps when managing property searches:
Stay informed on search results: Regular updates from your solicitor will help you stay informed and act quickly on any significant findings.
Address any issues with your agent and solicitor: If a search reveals potential issues, consult with your estate agent or solicitor to determine the best course of action. The Open Moove platform provides a safe place for these discussions to take place.
Use Open Moove’s network of professionals: Our platform connects you with knowledgeable professionals, from solicitors to surveyors, to help you navigate search findings with ease.
By understanding the purpose of each search and staying informed, you can make a confident, informed decision on your property purchase.

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