How much does conveyancing cost in 2026?

Conveyancing fees have two components: the legal fee charged by the firm, and disbursements — third-party costs the firm pays on your behalf. The total varies significantly depending on property value, tenure (freehold or leasehold), whether you have a mortgage, and the firm you choose.

Legal fees

For a straightforward freehold purchase in 2026, expect to pay £900 to £1,800 in legal fees. Leasehold properties typically cost £200 to £500 more because of the additional work involved. Sales are usually cheaper than purchases — £700 to £1,200 is typical for a freehold sale.

Most firms now quote fixed fees. If you receive an hourly rate quote, ask for a fixed fee equivalent — hourly billing creates uncertainty and is rare in residential conveyancing now.

Disbursements

Disbursements are charged at cost. The main ones for a purchase are:

• Local authority search: £100 to £250 depending on the council. Some areas offer personal searches via commercial providers which may be faster and cheaper.
• Environmental and drainage searches: £50 to £100 combined.
• HM Land Registry registration fee: Set by HMLR on a scale from £20 to £910 depending on property value. This is fixed and non-negotiable.
• Stamp duty land tax (SDLT): This is a tax, not a conveyancing fee, but your solicitor will typically collect and pay it on your behalf. Rates depend on property value and whether you are a first-time buyer.
• Bank transfer fee: Typically £30 to £50.

Additional leasehold costs

Leasehold purchases add further costs, not always clearly disclosed upfront:

• Management pack / leasehold information pack: £100 to £400, charged by the freeholder or managing agent. Not negotiable.
• Notice of transfer and notice of charge fees: £50 to £200 each, charged by the freeholder after completion.
• Deed of covenant: Sometimes required by the freeholder, £100 to £250.

What to watch out for

Comparison sites and online conveyancers sometimes quote low headline legal fees and list disbursements separately — or omit them entirely. Before accepting a quote, ask for the full estimated cost including all disbursements applicable to your property. Ask specifically whether there is an additional fee for acting for your mortgage lender (most firms now include this, but not all).

Also ask whether your quote is fixed regardless of complications, or whether it is an estimate that may increase. A true fixed fee protects you if additional work is needed.