Don’t Delay Your Sale: The Key Documents You’ll Need to Sell Your Home

 

The paperwork you need to sell your home – and why it matters...

Whether you’re moving for the first time or you’ve done it before, one thing remains the same: preparation is everything. And when it comes to selling your home, having your paperwork ready from day one can make a real difference.

At Quealy & Co, we often see sales delayed simply because key documents aren’t in place early enough. The good news? A little organisation upfront can help keep your move on track, reduce stress, and give your buyer confidence from the outset.

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Why being organised pays off

Selling a property isn’t just about agreeing a price. There are multiple parties involved: solicitors, surveyors, mortgage lenders, all of whom need accurate information at the right time.

If documents are missing or slow to arrive, it can stall the process or even jeopardise your sale altogether. This is especially important if you’re part of a chain, where one delay can have a knock-on effect.

What documents do you actually need?

Here’s a clear breakdown of the key paperwork to have ready:

Proof of ID and address

Before anything begins, your agent and solicitor will need to verify your identity. Typically, you’ll need:  

• A valid photo ID (passport or driving licence)

• Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement from the last 3 months)

Title deeds or Land Registry documents

These confirm you legally own the property. Most homes are registered, so your solicitor can access this electronically. Older, unregistered properties may require original paper deeds, which can take time to locate.

Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

You’ll need a valid EPC before your home goes on the market. This rates your property’s energy efficiency from A to G and lasts for 10 years. If yours has expired, it’s something we can quickly arrange for you.

Property Information Form (TA6)

This is where you provide detailed information about your home, including:  

• Boundaries and responsibilities

• Any disputes

• Building work carried out

• Utilities and parking arrangements

Accuracy here is crucial because incomplete or incorrect details can cause delays later.

Fittings and Contents Form (TA10)

This clarifies exactly what’s included in the sale. From kitchen appliances to light fittings and garden sheds. Agreeing this early helps avoid last-minute misunderstandings.

Mortgage details

If you still have a mortgage, your solicitor will request a redemption statement to confirm the outstanding balance. If you’ve used schemes like Help to Buy, those details will also be needed.

Certificates for work carried out

If you’ve made improvements, you’ll need proof they meet regulations. This might include:  

• Planning permission

• Building regulations approval

• Completion certificates

• FENSA certificates for windows

Missing paperwork here can raise red flags with buyers and lenders.

Warranties and guarantees

These offer reassurance that key features of your home are in good condition. Examples include:  

• Boiler warranties

• Electrical certificates

• Damp proof guarantees

• NHBC certificates for newer homes

Leasehold information (if applicable)

If your property is leasehold, you’ll also need:  

• A copy of the lease

• Service charge and ground rent details

• Managing agent or freeholder information

• Buildings insurance

• Details of planned works

This can take time to gather, so it’s worth starting early.

Missing something? Don’t panic!

If you don’t have everything to hand, it’s not the end of the world. Your solicitor can often help track down missing documents, but it will take time. That’s why getting organised early is one of the simplest ways to avoid unnecessary delays.

A quick checklist

To keep things simple, here’s what you’ll likely need:  

• Proof of ID and address

• Title deeds or Land Registry documents

• EPC certificate

• TA6 Property Information Form

• TA10 Fittings and Contents Form

• Mortgage details

• Planning and building certificates

• Warranties and guarantees

• Leasehold documents (if relevant)

Keep your move moving

At Quealy & Co, we’re here to make your sale as smooth and stress-free as possible. From preparing your paperwork to progressing your sale, our team will guide you every step of the way with straightforward, honest advice.

If you’re thinking of selling or just want to understand what your home could be worth, we’re here to help.

Book your free, no-obligation property valuation today:
https://www.quealy.co.uk/properties-valuation

Or get in touch with our team at hello@quealy.co.uk or call us on 01795 429836.