If you’ve ever bought or sold a property, you’ll know the process isn’t always as smooth as it should be. As a legal executive working in conveyancing, I’ve seen firsthand how frustrating delays and paperwork can be for clients — especially when time is tight or emotions are running high.
But there’s good news.
The Law Society has announced some long-overdue changes aimed at making the property process faster, fairer, and more efficient. Here are three key updates that could make a real difference:
Title Deeds Must Be Released Within 10 Days
One of the biggest causes of delay in property transactions is when a seller’s title deeds are held by their bank or mortgage provider. These documents can often take weeks to be released, slowing everything down before the legal work can even begin.
From March 2026, the Central Bank of Ireland’s Consumer Protection Code will require financial institutions to release title deeds within 10 working days of a valid request. This means your solicitor can get started much sooner — resulting in fewer hold-ups and a smoother process overall.
Faster Replies from Local Authorities
When selling a home in a development or estate, your solicitor will usually need confirmation from the local authority that the roads and services have been “taken in charge”.
At present, obtaining this confirmation can take anywhere from 4–10 weeks — and sometimes even longer.
A new system is now being introduced with the goal of local authorities responding within 10 working days for standard cases. This should help reduce delays, ease uncertainty, and speed up the path to completion.
Smoother Paperwork with ‘Statements of Truth’
Currently, many legal declarations still need to be signed in person before a solicitor under the Statutory Declarations Act 1938. This can be inconvenient, particularly for people living abroad, those with mobility issues, or anyone struggling to attend an office appointment.
The Law Society is now advocating for the wider use of Statements of Truth as a modern alternative.
In many situations, these would remove the need for in-person witnessing, helping to save time and streamline the process for both clients and legal practitioners alike.
A Positive Step Towards Modern Conveyancing
These reforms form part of a wider effort to modernise conveyancing and reduce unnecessary delays for buyers and sellers alike.
While change won’t happen overnight, these developments represent a strong step in the right direction — helping make property transactions more efficient, less stressful, and more client-focused.
If you’re planning on buying or selling a property, feel free to get in touch. We’re always happy to help and guide you through the process clearly, calmly, and without the jargon.
Planning to Buy or Sell Property?
If you are considering buying or selling a property, early legal advice can make a significant difference.
At Maria O’Donovan and Co., we guide clients through the conveyancing process with clarity, efficiency and a focus on practical outcomes.
