By SellTo – The Fast, Transparent Property Experts
Introduction
Selling a house in the UK involves more than just finding a buyer and setting a price—it requires meticulous preparation, accurate documentation, and an understanding of legal requirements. One of the most overlooked—but absolutely crucial—elements in the home-selling process is having the correct paperwork in order.
Whether you’re selling your home through an estate agent, going with a private sale, or choosing a faster cash-sale option with a property buying company like SellTo, having the right documents ready can significantly speed up the process, avoid costly delays, and even prevent the sale from falling through.
This comprehensive guide outlines every document required when selling a house in the UK, breaking down what each one means, why it’s important, and how to obtain it. From property titles and EPCs to leasehold details and ID checks, we’ve covered everything. By the end of this article, you’ll have the knowledge and checklist you need to sell your house with confidence and efficiency.
Why Having the Right Documents Matters When Selling Your Home
Before diving into the document list, it’s vital to understand why paperwork plays such a central role in the property selling process:
- Avoid delays: Missing documents often stall the conveyancing process.
- Boost buyer confidence: Organised paperwork makes your sale more attractive.
- Maintain compliance: Legal obligations around property sales are strict in the UK.
- Speed up the transaction: Cash buyers like SellTo can complete much faster when documentation is ready.
- Prevent sale fall-throughs: Missing or unclear documentation can result in a buyer pulling out.
Essential Documents Required to Sell a House in the UK
1. Proof of Identity and Proof of Address
This is a legal requirement in the UK for anti-money laundering purposes. You’ll need to provide:
- A valid photo ID (e.g. passport or driving licence)
- Proof of current address (e.g. utility bill, council tax letter, or bank statement)
Solicitors and estate agents are legally required to verify your identity.
2. Title Deeds
The title deeds show that you are the legal owner of the property. These include information about:
- Ownership history
- Boundaries
- Rights of way
- Covenants and restrictions
If you don’t physically have the title deeds, don’t worry—they’re usually held digitally by the HM Land Registry, especially if the property has changed hands in recent years.
Your solicitor or conveyancer can access these quickly if they are registered.
3. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
An EPC is legally required when marketing a property for sale in the UK. It provides a rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and includes recommendations to improve the energy efficiency of the home.
Key points:
- EPCs are valid for 10 years.
- A copy must be provided to prospective buyers.
- If your property doesn’t have one, you can arrange an assessment.
4. Fittings and Contents Form (TA10)
This document outlines exactly what is included in the sale—such as fixtures, fittings, and appliances.
Examples of items listed:
- Curtain poles
- Carpets
- Kitchen appliances
- Garden furniture
- Light fittings
Being transparent avoids disputes and helps the buyer know exactly what to expect.
5. Property Information Form (TA6)
This is a detailed form that includes key information about the property:
- Disputes and complaints
- Planning permissions
- Building works
- Warranties and guarantees
- Drainage and utilities
- Neighbourhood issues
The more accurate and thorough this form is, the smoother your sale will be.
6. Leasehold or Freehold Documents
If your property is leasehold, you will need:
- The lease agreement
- Ground rent/service charge details
- Management company contact information
- Leasehold information pack
These are critical for buyers and mortgage lenders alike.
For freehold properties, fewer documents are needed—but boundary and access details still matter.
7. Building Regulation Certificates and Planning Permission Approvals
If you have done any structural work (extensions, loft conversions, electrical rewiring, etc.), you must provide:
- Building Regulation Compliance Certificates
- Planning Permission Approvals (if applicable)
- Completion Certificates
- Gas Safety Certificates (if applicable)
- Electrical Certificates (EICR)
Buyers will want assurance that all work complies with UK building regulations.
8. Warranties and Guarantees
Provide any guarantees or warranties related to:
- Double glazing
- Boilers
- Electrical systems
- Damp proofing
- Roofing work
Original paperwork can help increase buyer confidence and reduce survey-related concerns.
9. Mortgage Details (If Applicable)
If you have a mortgage on the property, your solicitor will need:
- The mortgage account number
- The lender’s contact information
This ensures the solicitor can handle redemption statements and settle any outstanding amounts when the property is sold.
10. Shared Ownership or Help to Buy Documentation (If Applicable)
If your home was purchased using a Help to Buy scheme or shared ownership, you’ll need:
- Shared ownership lease
- Equity loan statements
- Permission to sell (from the housing association or authority)
These documents must be reviewed before you can proceed with a sale.
11. Insurance Information
While not legally required, having proof of buildings insurance in place is helpful. Some buyers may request this for peace of mind, especially if the property has a history of flooding or subsidence.
Optional But Useful Documents
- Recent utility bills: Helps buyers plan for running costs
- Council Tax bill: Shows band and current annual charge
- Neighbour consent (for shared driveways or access agreements)
- Survey reports (if you had one done when purchasing)
- Original purchase documentation (Memorandum of Sale or original estate agent listing)
Document Preparation Checklist for a Smooth Sale
Here’s a summary checklist you can use before putting your property on the market:
| Document Type | Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of ID & Address | ✔️ | For anti-money laundering checks |
| Title Deeds | ✔️ | Proves ownership and includes rights and restrictions |
| EPC | ✔️ | Must be made available to buyers |
| TA10 (Fittings and Contents) | ✔️ | Lists all items included in the sale |
| TA6 (Property Information Form) | ✔️ | Covers legal, maintenance, utility, and planning data |
| Lease Documents (if leasehold) | If needed | Required if your property is leasehold |
| Building Regulation Certificates | If needed | For extensions, rewiring, gas, etc. |
| Mortgage Information | If needed | Required if selling with a mortgage |
| Help to Buy/Shared Ownership Docs | If needed | Ensures proper authority to sell under scheme conditions |
| Insurance Certificates | Optional | Demonstrates history and coverage of the property |
| Warranties/Guarantees | Optional | Adds reassurance for buyers |
| Utility Bills, Council Tax | Optional | Useful for buyers to understand costs |
How to Speed Up the Process With SellTo
At SellTo, we believe in fast, fair, and secure property transactions. By ensuring your documents are prepared and available, you allow our team to:
- Make a cash offer within 24 hours
- Complete within 7–14 days
- Eliminate unnecessary delays caused by missing paperwork
- Handle conveyancing efficiently with clear documentation
- Support you through the entire process with transparency
We often work with sellers who need a rapid sale due to financial pressures, divorce, inheritance, or relocation—and having documents ready helps us help you faster.
Common Questions About House Selling Documents
Do I need to hire a solicitor before I start gathering documents?
Not necessarily—but it can help. Solicitors know exactly what will be needed and can assist in preparing the TA6 and TA10 forms correctly.
What if I’ve lost my title deeds?
If your property is registered with the Land Registry (most UK properties are), a copy can be obtained online. Your solicitor can help with this.
How long does it take to gather all the documents?
With proper organisation, it can take a few days to a week. Waiting until you accept an offer can result in much longer timelines.
Can I sell without an EPC?
No. It is a legal requirement. If your EPC has expired, you’ll need to commission a new one before listing your home.
Are digital copies acceptable?
Yes, in most cases. PDFs and scanned documents are typically fine for buyers, solicitors, and estate agents.
Final Thoughts
The house-selling process is made significantly easier and quicker when you have all your documents in order. Whether you’re choosing to go down the traditional route or opting for a fast, chain-free cash sale with SellTo, your paperwork is the foundation of a smooth and successful transaction.
Failing to prepare is preparing to fail—so take time now to compile everything you need. The sooner your documents are ready, the sooner you can get your house sold—and move on to the next exciting chapter in your life.
If you’re looking to sell quickly, eliminate uncertainty, and work with a team that values efficiency, transparency, and speed—SellTo is here to help.
