Property solicitor vs conveyancer: Which do you need?

Let’s clear up the confusion

If you’ve ever Googled “Do I need a solicitor or a conveyancer?”, you’re not alone.

When you buy or sell a home, you’ll need someone to handle the legal process known as conveyancing. But should you use a property solicitor or a licensed conveyancer? They might sound like they do the same thing, and often they do, but there are key differences in training, cost, and scope of service.

Here’s how to decide which fits your move.

What is a licensed conveyancer?

A licensed conveyancer is a professional who specialises solely in property law. They are trained to deal with residential transactions — sales, purchases, remortgages, and transfers of equity. They can:

• Conduct property searches and legal checks
• Liaise with mortgage lenders
• Draft and review contracts
• Handle the exchange and completion process

They’re regulated by the Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC) and are often more affordable than solicitors, making them ideal for straightforward home moves.

What’s a property solicitor?

A property solicitor is a fully qualified lawyer who can carry out conveyancing, but with a broader legal background. This means they can also deal with more complex matters such as:

• Leasehold extensions and shared ownership
• Matrimonial property transfers
• Disputes or restrictive covenants
• Commercial property transactions

Solicitors are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and typically have higher fees, reflecting their wider expertise.

Comparing solicitors and conveyancers

💡 Pro Tip: Compare quotes and check reviews before instructing. It’s not just about price — communication and speed matter too.

Key differences at a glance

Which should you choose?

For a simple sale or purchase, a conveyancer will do the job efficiently. If your move involves shared ownership, leaseholds, or legal disputes — opt for a solicitor.

🔍Compare quotes across multiple conveyancers and check their star-rating before choosing who to instruct.