New build conveyancing explained: A Sheffield buyer's checklist and timeline
8 min read - by Redmile Homes
If you’re considering buying a new build home in or around Sheffield, it’s worth knowing that the conveyancing process works a little differently compared to buying an older property.
Because the development is new, much of the legal information is already in place, which can make checks and enquiries more straightforward for your solicitor. New build purchases also tend to follow fixed exchange deadlines, giving the process a more structured timeline.
In this guide, we break down the complete new build conveyancing process into clear phases, with a practical new build conveyancing checklist and timeline. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect at each stage and feel more confident about your purchase in South Yorkshire.
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Preparing for the new build conveyancing process
Before you formally reserve a property, there are several early considerations that can affect your new build conveyancing timeline and overall experience, from the type of home you choose to how you approach the legal process.
Choosing the right plot and build stage
With new build homes, you may be buying:
- Off-plan (before construction starts)
- During construction
- A completed, move-in-ready home
The build stage affects your conveyancing timeline. For example, buying off-plan usually means exchanging contracts quickly, then waiting several months for completion once the home is finished.
Comparing conveyancing quotes
Solicitors’ fees for new builds can vary, so you should compare quotes as soon as you start looking for a plot or home. When reviewing prices, check:
- What’s included in the base fee
- Whether additional costs may apply later
Extra work (and fees) can arise if the property includes solar panels, gifted deposits, affordable housing schemes, or if legal searches uncover issues that need further investigation.
Developer-recommended solicitors
Your developer may recommend a solicitor who is experienced in new build purchases. You’re not obligated to use them, but many buyers find this helpful because:
- They’re familiar with new build deadlines
- They understand developer contract structures
- Communication can be quicker during time-sensitive stages
The most important thing is choosing a solicitor you feel comfortable working with and who understands the specific requirements of the new build conveyancing process.
Phase 1: Reserving a property (week 1)
Once you’ve chosen your plot or home, the legal process begins. You’ll start by signing a reservation agreement with the developer and, in most cases, paying a reservation fee. The property is then taken off the market for a fixed period.
You’ll need to instruct your solicitor straight away. They’ll usually ask for:
- The Memorandum of Sale (MOS) from the developer
- Proof of ID and anti-money laundering checks
- A completed purchase questionnaire
- Signed client care letter or agreement
When buying a property with Redmile Homes, we can recommend solicitors we regularly work with who are experienced in new builds and used to working to tight exchange deadlines.
Phase 2: Contract review and legal checks (weeks 2-3)
This is the most detailed stage of the new build conveyancing timeline, where your solicitor carries out all key legal checks. First, they will receive a contract pack from the developer’s legal team, which includes the documents they need to review the purchase.
Your solicitor then checks that the development is legally sound and that the home you’re buying matches what’s been agreed. This typically includes:
- Confirming the entire development has the correct planning permissions
- Checking compliance with local authority conditions
- Reviewing your 10-year NHBC warranty (or equivalent)
- Verifying property boundaries, parking spaces, bin stores, and communal areas
- Checking access rights and shared responsibilities
- Ordering standard searches, including local authority, drainage and water, and environmental checks
In Sheffield and across South Yorkshire, this may also include historical mining searches, which are common in the area and a routine part of conveyancing for local solicitors.
Phase 3: The sprint to exchange (weeks 3-4)
Once the legal checks are complete and enquiries have been resolved, your solicitor will begin finalising the purchase. By this stage, you’ll need a formal mortgage offer in place, either arranged directly or through a mortgage broker, and sent to your solicitor.
You’ll receive a legal pack to review, which usually includes the contract, a report on title explaining the findings, replies to enquiries, NHBC warranty documents, and other key paperwork. Your solicitor will talk you through anything that needs explanation before you sign.
You’ll then return the signed contract and transfer your deposit funds to your solicitor, who will hold them until exchange. Most developers require contracts to be exchanged within 28-42 days from reservation, after which they’re legally entitled to remarket the property.
Phase 4: The build gap (duration varies)
This is where the new build conveyancing timeline differs most from buying an older home. Unlike existing properties, there can be several months between exchange and completion, particularly if the home is still being built or is not yet accessible on site.
Once construction is finished and the property has been signed off, the developer will issue a notice to complete. You’ll usually have around 10 working days to complete the purchase.
If your build takes longer than expected, it’s important to:
- Keep an eye on your mortgage offer expiry date (often around 6 months)
- Speak to your broker or solicitor about organising an extension
Phase 5: Handover and completion (final week)
Before or around completion, you’ll have the opportunity to inspect the property to ensure all your choices are correct. We’ll explain how to use your new home and how to let your house settle. You can also report any minor defects or finishing issues you spot and these will be logged so they don’t get overlooked. Once you’ve moved in our site manager will call to ensure you’re confident with how everything works and make sure you’re happy with the quality.
Your solicitor will then draw down the mortgage funds, transfer the remaining balance, and complete the legal purchase. They’ll also settle their fees for conveyancing and register your ownership with the Land Registry.
Finally, it’s time for the best part – collecting your keys and moving into your new home!
New build conveyancing checklist:
Use this summary checklist to track your progress through the new build conveyancing process:
- Pay the plot reservation fee and receive the Memorandum of Sale (MOS)
- Choose and instruct a solicitor experienced in new builds
- Complete ID and anti-money laundering checks
- Submit your mortgage application and receive a formal offer
- Ensure planning permissions, warranties, and site plans are confirmed
- Review the contract pack and legal report from your solicitor
- Sign contracts and transfer deposit funds
- Exchange contracts within the required timeframe
- Monitor build progress and mortgage offer expiry
- Receive notice to complete
- Inspect the property and report snags
- Complete the purchase and collect your keys
Note that in practice, some of these steps may happen at the same time or in a slightly different order:
Some developers may ask for your solicitor’s details before you can formally reserve a property, while some solicitors won’t confirm instruction until they’ve completed their ID and anti-money laundering checks.
Developers may also carry out their own proof of funds and compliance checks before reservation, and these will usually need to be repeated by your solicitor as part of the legal process.
Making a move in 2026
Conveyancing doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right solicitor, a clear timeline, and a supportive developer, the new build conveyancing timeline and process can be straightforward and stress-free.
At Redmile Homes, our small, friendly team works closely with solicitors to keep everything moving smoothly. With a range of plot types and support at every stage, we make buying your new home in Sheffield and South Yorkshire a positive, well-organised experience.
Author: Redmile Homes
1/28/2026
FAQs about the new build conveyancing process
Do I need a conveyancer for a new build?
Yes. A solicitor or licensed conveyancer is needed to manage the legal work, including contracts, searches, and mortgage funds. New build purchases also come with tighter deadlines, so having the right legal support in place is especially important.
How long does conveyancing on a new build take?
In most cases, the new build conveyancing process takes around 4-6 weeks (up to exchange of contracts). Completion depends on the build stage and can take several months after exchange if the home is still being finished.
What happens when you exchange contracts on a new build?
Once contracts are exchanged, you’re legally committed to buying the property and your deposit is paid. Completion will then take place once the home is finished and a notice to complete has been issued.