A firm foundation for conveyancing

This book is an essential read for conveyancers. But what also struck me about the text was how useful it could potentially be to lawyers of other specialisms.

I will certainly be using this book as a ready reference when I have queries about the mechanics of property transactions and conveyancing practice, which often arise in the context of contract and land disputes, or professional negligence claims.

The information in the book would also be invaluable to anyone in a law firm who is tasked with internal risk management and best practice relating to property files.

I found the contents and index sections easy to use and I do not think it would take me more than a couple of attempts to locate the point I am looking for.

Looking through the sections, it is apparent that they offer a good and concise reference point, while also providing citations and other footnote links where relevant, so that more in-depth research can be carried out as needed.

If I were a transactional property lawyer, I would routinely refer to many of the sections of the book as an informal aide-mémoire in a property transaction. These sections provide notes of the salient points but also remain versatile enough to be glanced over by a conveyancer to tailor and select the information relevant to an individual transaction.

In addition to this, the appendices to the text reproduce some of the relevant standard conditions, enquiries and protocols, as well as including an excellent precedent resource for compiling property reports on purchase.

This edition also includes new and updated guidance on: shared ownership; external wall systems; money laundering reforms; HM Land Registry and electronic signatures; and VAT and stamp duty land tax.

Jenny Kemp is an associate at WBW LLP, Newton Abbot