E-Conveyancing would mean that all those involved in the buying and selling process – from the Estate Agent to the Land Registry, would use one central dashboard when ‘doing their bit’. It aims to ensure the process runs smoothly, decrease hassle, and ensure no gaps in the knowledge of any parts of the chain.
However, not so long ago, questions were asked about whether the Conveyancing industry is ready for such a drastic change, with fears that work would get ‘lost in translation’ between each element involved. So, is E-Conveyancing closer than we think, or is there still a way to go?
Features and Benefits of E-Conveyancing.
The company piloting the scheme, Search Acumen, recently unveiled the technology, enabling lawyers to manage the entire Residential Conveyancing process through a dashboard. Multiple sources from the Conveyancing process are involved, including HM Land Registry engagement and post-completion filings (AP1 forms and Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) submissions). It also includes managing client onboarding, local authority searches, title reports, indemnity issues and bank checks. Therefore, it leaves little to be disclosed manually.
Search Acumen has claimed that the digitalisation of the process could mean the workload for each case takes up to five hours less than now, without using the central dashboard. The company’s managing director said, ‘Our residential platform will continue our track record of abolishing antiquated ways of working and empowering legal professionals to have greater control over transaction processes’.
Drawbacks of Digitalised Conveyancing.
However, not so long ago, questions and concerns were raised about how appropriate digitalisation may be, following issues with the Conveyancing process highlighted by the stamp duty holiday, introduced due to coronavirus’s financial and economic hardships. It was argued that Conveyancers struggled whilst hundreds of thousands of transactions were held up. Or, the issue wouldn’t be based on the technology involved, but instead the lack of updates and communication from other actors in the process, for example, the Land Registry or Estate Agents.
So, can digitalisation be genuinely effective if issues remain? What if there are gaps in communication and knowledge of data? Or problems arise with some organisations using the database whilst others don’t? What if the old and arguably outdated regulations fail to support the new E-Conveyancing methods – making it impossible for lawyers to comply?
Conveyancing Solicitor Near Me
Conveyancing will inevitably digitalise in the coming years, alongside various other legal processes. At Beverley Morris & Co., our expert solicitors will continue to ensure the best client care and high-quality legal advice, no matter the process required.
We provide practical solutions to your problems, so contact us today for guidance with your residential conveyancing. Call us on 020 8852 4433 or email us at enquiries@beverleymorris.co.uk.