This brings the form in line with National Trading Standards Estate and Letting Agency Team (NTSELAT) recommendations on what should be disclosed by estate agents on property listings. NTSELAT guidance advises sellers to contact their solicitor at an early stage.
Law Society president Nick Emmerson said: ‘Earlier contact between sellers and their solicitors may provide an opportunity to address any issues that could cause delays in the sale process at a later date.’
The updated forms, available from this week, now include: the unique property reference number and council tax band; cost of parking permits; information about defects or hazards and recommended essential works; restrictive covenants; flood risk, defences and coastal erosion; accessibility adaptations; air and ground heat pumps; sewerage discharge; and Japanese knotweed in adjacent areas.