Property auctions can be thrilling and fast-paced, offering unique opportunities for buyers. However, before placing your bid, it's essential to understand the legal pack. This document contains crucial information that can significantly impact your decision.

In this guide, we'll break down what to expect in the legal pack, highlight red flags to look out for, and outline the most important clauses every buyer should review.

What is a Legal Pack?

A legal pack is a collection of documents provided by the seller (or their solicitor) that gives potential buyers vital insight into the property being auctioned.

Typical contents include:

• Title Deeds – Proof of ownership and any restrictions
• Special Conditions of Sale – Extra terms beyond the standard auction contract
• Property Information Form – Details on property boundaries, condition, and services
• Local Authority Searches – Planning permissions, restrictions, disputes
• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) – The property's energy rating
• Leasehold Documents (if applicable) – Terms of the lease, ground rent, and service charges

Key Areas to Review

Title Deeds

Verify that ownership is clear and look out for restrictive covenants, rights of way, or easements. Issues with title can cause major legal and financial issues.

Special Conditions of Sale

This section may contain terms that differ from the standard auction agreement. Watch for unusual obligations — like having to pay the seller’s legal fees or fix defects pre-completion.

Local Authority Searches

Review for any pending planning permissions, building regulation issues, enforcement notices, or neighbour disputes. These can affect how you use or develop the property.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

• ❌ Unresolved Disputes – Ongoing legal or neighbour disputes can result in future complications
• ❌ Restrictive Covenants – Limit what you can do with the property
• ❌ Overlapping or Unclear Boundaries – May signal conflicts with adjoining properties
• ❌ Unclear Ownership Details – Seek legal advice if ownership or titles are vague or disputed

Must-Check Clauses

Utilities and Services

Confirm which utilities are connected and if there are any outstanding debts. These can become the buyer’s responsibility.

Property Condition Exclusions

Many legal packs exclude liability for hidden damage. Know what you're agreeing to — especially if the property is uninhabitable or needs renovation.

Deposit and Completion Terms

Understand how much you must pay upfront (typically 10%) and how long you have to complete (usually 28 days). Failure to meet these terms can result in lost deposits or legal penalties.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the legal pack is one of the most important steps in buying property at auction. Skipping this review could lead to hidden costs, delays, or even losing your investment.

Whether you're buying at a UK property auction, bidding on a house auction in England, or exploring commercial property auctions, always get a solicitor to review the legal pack.

By doing your due diligence, you’ll be better equipped to spot risks, plan your bid, and make confident, informed decisions.