Documents to keep when buying a home
Buying a home produces a pile of paperwork. Much of it becomes useful again years later — when you sell, remortgage, extend or make a claim.
General information · Last reviewed
What this document usually is
This is a checklist of documents commonly kept after a purchase. Your conveyancer or solicitor may hold some originals and send you copies; ask them what they are keeping.
What to check on it
- Completion statement from your conveyancer
- Transfer deed and title register (or equivalent in Scotland)
- Mortgage offer and terms
- Survey report
- Searches and replies to enquiries
- Guarantees, warranties and certificates (e.g. NHBC or similar new-build warranty, damp proofing, windows, boiler)
- Building regulations sign-offs and planning permissions for past work
- Stamp Duty Land Tax (or LBTT / LTT) return and receipt
Why this matters when you sell
Missing certificates can delay a sale or lead to indemnity policies being needed. Having them in one place makes the process smoother.
Things worth a second look
- Emails changing your solicitor's bank details — always confirm by phone using a number you already have
What you might need to do next
- Ask your conveyancer for copies of everything at completion
- Store guarantees and certificates together
- Note warranty end dates so you know when cover stops
Official sources
Common questions
Q. Do I need the original deeds?
A. In England and Wales most titles are registered electronically, so the register is the main record — but keep any original documents you're given.
Q. How long should I keep the survey?
A. Many people keep it while they own the home; it can be helpful when planning work.
Related guides
Important disclaimer
This guide is general information about common UK documents, not legal, financial, tax or medical advice. Always read your own document and, where something is serious, contact the sender or a qualified adviser.
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