How long does conveyancing take?

Conveyancing does not move at one fixed speed. Based on the verified facts provided here, the period from an offer being accepted to exchange can take up to seven weeks, and exchange to completion usually takes up to four weeks, sometimes earlier. After completion, there is also a separate registration stage at HM Land Registry, which can take much longer.

The overall timeline

Using the verified timings here, a purchase may take up to seven weeks from offer accepted to exchange, then up to four weeks from exchange to completion. Registration then follows completion. HM Land Registry’s May 2026 processing guidance says over half of transfer applications to update the register take 16 weeks, while most complete in about 8 months.

Offer to exchange

Citizens Advice says the period from offer accepted to exchange can take up to seven weeks. This is a general guide rather than a fixed rule, so individual transactions may differ.

Exchange to completion

Citizens Advice says exchange of contracts to completion usually takes up to four weeks and can be earlier. That means this stage is often shorter than the earlier pre-exchange part of the transaction.

Registration after completion

A registration application must be made within 2 months of completion; the verified fact provided says that if this is not complied with, the transfer becomes void as regards the legal estate. HM Land Registry’s May 2026 guidance says over half of transfer applications take 16 weeks and most complete in about 8 months, although legal ownership rights are secured from the moment the application is received.

What causes delays

MISSING: verified facts about causes of conveyancing delays

Key facts

Source: legislation.gov.uk - Land Registration Act 2002 s.6-7 — Guidance checked August 2026

Source: GOV.UK - HM Land Registry processing times — Guidance checked August 2026

Source: Citizens Advice - Buying a home — Guidance checked August 2026