What are the Preliminary Enquiries?

Preliminary enquries are a standard set of questions asked of the seller's solicitor by the buyer's solicitor. This list will include:
BOUNDARIES: It is vital to establish exactly what the boundaries of the property are and who is responsible for the maintenance of hedges and fences.
DISPUTES: Are there any disputes relating to the property, e.g disputes with neighbours.
RIGHTS OF WAY: check whether there is any footpath or right of way through the property and on shared access with neighbours, such as a driveway.
SERVICES: check if the utilities reach the property through a neighbour's property or if these are shared with a neighbour.
PLANNING CONSTRAINTS: check if any alterations have met local planning requirements and that building regulation consent has been recieved.
RESTRICTIVE COVENANTS: whether the deeds contain certain forbidden specifics, such as keeping pets, painting the property's exterior or even on the use of Christmas decorations!
GUARENTEES OR INSURANCE POLICIES:
INCLUSIVE LIST OF CONTENTS: It is vital to establish and clearly list exactly what is to be included as part of the sale and what is to be removed.
LEASEHOLD: If the property is leasehold, check whether the seller is up to date with ground rent and service charges.