A local authority search, specifically the CON29 form, is a critical part of the property conveyancing process in England and Wales. It provides detailed information about the property that may affect a buyer’s decision. The CON29 search is divided into two parts: CON29R (required) and CON29O (optional). Here’s a detailed overview of what each part involves:

CON29R (Required)

The CON29R search covers essential information regarding the property and the surrounding area. It includes:

1. Planning and Building Regulations:
   • Planning Decisions: Details of any planning decisions affecting the property.
   • Building Regulations: Information about building regulations approval for any construction work done on the property.
2. Roads and Highways:
   • Road Schemes: Information about any proposed road schemes or traffic schemes that may affect the property.
   • Public Rights of Way: Details on public footpaths or rights of way crossing the property.
3. Traffic and Transport:
   • Traffic Orders: Information on traffic orders or proposals that might affect the property.
   • Rail and Road Proposals: Details about any nearby railway or road proposals that could impact the property.
4. Environmental and Pollution Issues:
   • Contaminated Land: Information on whether the property is on or near contaminated land.
   • Radon Gas: Information on whether the property is in a radon-affected area.
5. Public Services and Utilities:
   • Water and Sewerage: Information about the property’s connection to public water and sewer systems.
   • Drainage: Details on any drainage issues affecting the property.
6. Legal and Administrative Issues:
   • Enforcement Notices: Information about any enforcement notices or breaches of planning or building regulations.
   • Compulsory Purchase Orders: Details on any compulsory purchase orders affecting the property.
   • Land Charges: Information about any local land charges affecting the property.

CON29O (Optional)

The CON29O search includes additional, more specific information that may be relevant depending on the property’s location or the buyer’s concerns. This can include:

1. Environmental Issues:
   • Common Land and Village Greens: Information on whether the property is affected by common land or village green designations.
2. Specific Local Factors:
   • Hazardous Substances Consents: Information on any consents for the storage or use of hazardous substances.
   • Flood Defense and Land Drainage Consents: Details about any consents related to flood defenses and land drainage.
3. Miscellaneous:
   • Noise Abatement: Information on noise abatement zones and any orders affecting the property.
   • Land Maintenance: Details about any land maintenance charges or responsibilities.

Importance of a CON29 Search

• Risk Assessment: Identifies potential risks or issues that could affect the property’s value or suitability.
• Informed Decision: Helps buyers make an informed decision by providing comprehensive information about the property and its surroundings.
• Legal Protection: Ensures that buyers are aware of any legal obligations or restrictions affecting the property.
• Financial Planning: Reveals any potential future costs or liabilities, such as road schemes or compulsory purchase orders.

Process and Costs

• Solicitor or Conveyancer: Typically, a solicitor or licensed conveyancer will request the CON29 search from the local authority.
• Time Frame: The process can take several days to a few weeks, depending on the local authority’s efficiency.
• Cost: The cost varies by local authority but generally ranges from £50 to £300.

In summary, the CON29 local authority search is a vital component of the property purchasing process, providing essential information that helps buyers understand any potential issues or future changes that could affect their investment.