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Scotland

Buying a home

After the sale is finalised

On the move-in date, sometimes called the completion date, your solicitor will transfer the money and get the keys.

You'll usually need to get buildings insurance for the move-in date.

Check where your title deeds are kept

Your mortgage lender will keep the title deeds until you pay it off. You can ask to see them at any time.

If you do not have a mortgage, the title deeds will usually be sent to your solicitor.

If you do not know where your title deeds are, ask the solicitor you used when buying the home. You can also pay a fee to order a copy of your title deeds from the Registers of Scotland.

Repair problems when you move in

If you find new repair issues that were not listed in the home report, tell your solicitor immediately.

For some repairs, such as a broken boiler or heating system, the seller may still be responsible for 5 working days after the sale.

Problems with a survey

If your surveyor misses a defect that later costs you money, you could claim compensation.

Contact Citizens Advice to work out your rights and get advice on making a complaint to the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.

Problems with a new build home

Once your home is ready, there can still be outstanding work to be done. This is sometimes called snagging. It means the building has passed a warranty inspection but needs small repairs, like:

  • finishing incomplete tiling, grout or sealant

  • finishing plasterwork

  • fixing loose fixtures and fittings

You can check for snags yourself. Ask the developer for a copy of their checklist, or search online for a snagging checklist. If you can, complete the checklist ahead of your move-in date so snags can be fixed before you move in.

The developer is responsible for fixing snags. If they will not, check your rights and how to complain on the NHBC website.

You can also get a snagging inspection done by a specialist company. You’ll need to pay for an inspection.

Last updated: 25 July 2024

Housing laws differ between Scotland and England.

This content applies to Scotland only.

Get advice if you're in England