How to chase your solicitor without souring the relationship
Conveyancing · 4 min read · by Jordan ·
Your conveyancer is probably running dozens of files at once. The buyers who get answers aren't the loudest — they're the easiest to answer.
This is general guidance to help you know what's normal — it isn't legal or financial advice.
Ask questions with specific answers
"Any update?" invites "we're progressing matters". Instead ask: which enquiries are outstanding? Who are we waiting on? When were searches ordered? Each has a factual answer someone can give in two minutes.
Email beats phone for this: it creates a record, it can be answered between meetings, and it's forwardable to whoever is actually holding things up.
Gentle first, firm second
Start friendly — most delays have boring explanations. If a specific question gets silence for a week, escalate the tone, not the volume: state what you've asked, when, and that you'd like a reply today. Keep it professional; you may need this person to move fast for you at exchange.
Home Buying Steps includes gentle and firm versions of every chase email, matched to your stage and country, ready to copy and send.
FAQ
How often should I chase my solicitor? Once a stage has run past its typical window. Weekly is reasonable when something is genuinely overdue; daily chasing slows everyone down.
Should I call or email my conveyancer? Email. It creates a record, can be answered between meetings, and is forwardable to whoever is actually causing the delay.
What should I say if my solicitor isn't responding? State what you asked, when you asked it, and that you'd like a reply today. Ask which items are outstanding and who you are waiting on.
Can I complain about a slow conveyancer? Yes — firms have a complaints procedure, and you can escalate to the Legal Ombudsman. Try a specific, documented chase first.
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Home Buying Steps provides general guidance only, specific to the country you select — not legal, financial, mortgage or tax advice. Always consult your own solicitor or broker. Read the full disclaimer.