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Due Diligence Before Buying a Property: The Complete Checklist

Everything to check before you exchange.

Due Diligence Before Buying a Property: The Complete Checklist Residential Property Services in London

Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond

Buying · Due diligence

Due diligence before buying

Title& boundaries
Searches& survey
Lease& charges
Planning& safety
In short: Due diligence protects you from expensive surprises. Your solicitor checks the title, boundaries, rights and restrictions, and orders local authority, drainage and environmental searches. You should commission a survey suited to the property's age and condition. For flats, review the lease length, ground rent, service charges, major works plans and building safety information. Check planning and building control for past works, flood risk, and the material information in the listing. If it's tenanted, check the tenancy, deposit and certificates. Exchange only when you're satisfied.

Buyer checklist

Frequently asked questions

What survey do I need?

Level 2 for most modern homes; Level 3 for older or altered homes.

Who does due diligence?

Your solicitor, surveyor and you.

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