Stolen fireplaces - Conveyancing Solicitor in Harrow comments on implications for homebuyers

Reports that a valuable fireplace was stolen from Bentley Priory near Harrow prompt a Conveyancing Solicitor in Harrow to comment on some of the implications for homebuyers

The Harrow Observer reports that a fireplace worth tens of thousands of pounds has been recovered by Harrow police after it was stolen from one of Harrow's most historic sites. The rare piece of furniture was taken from The Mansion at Bentley Priory, the former RAF headquarters from which the Battle of Britain was directed during the Second World War.

It is good news that this fireplace has been recovered, but what happens when a homebuyer finds that something is missing when a property sale is completed?

Conveyancing Solicitors in Harrow can tell of  cases which have arisen where important items, such as a period fireplace or central heating pipes, have been stolen or even removed by the seller just before completion. This may only be discovered by the buyer after completion has taken place, and can lead to acrimonious litigation.

Anyone selling a house in Harrow will now be asked to complete a list of fixtures and fittings which are to be included in the sale, which will be passed to the buyers with the contract documentation. Conveyancing Solicitors in Harrow advise that purchasers should always check such lists carefully, and raise any queries at an early stage.

If a vendor is tempted to remove something which is a fixture then they may find that they will be liable to reinstate the house or pay damages when they have not said that it would be removed. As agents now routinely take many photographs of the interior of a home, a new owner may easily be able to produce evidence to show what was in the home at the time it was marketed.

What about building insurance?

If a fitting is stolen from a property during the sale process (perhaps where the property is empty) the question of insurance may arise. Traditionally the insurance risk passes to the buyer when contracts are exchanged, but the current standard conditions of sale used by Conveyancing Solicitors in Harrow contain a standard provision to the effect that the risk remains with the seller. However that provision is often excluded, and even if it is left in it does not require the seller to insure.

Anyone buying a residence in Harrow (especially if it is empty, such as a probate sale or repossessed home) should ask their Conveyancing Solicitor to advise on the terms of the contract. It is recommended that cover is put in place immediately on exchange.

Get a quote for Conveyancing Solicitors in Harrow or phone 0330 660 0286 for more information.