CLC Annual Roundtable: What is facing the conveyancing profession?

The latest CLC Annual Roundtable focused on the issues that matter most to the profession right now.

On Tuesday 26th September 2023, the CLC held their Annual Roundtable discussing what is currently facing the conveyancing profession.

CLC asked each of their attendees to identify the one reform they think the market should focus on.

The CLC Annual Roundtable write up is due next month, but some themes and key ideas were shared over on X (formerly Twitter).

The key themes that were emerging included:

Automation

• Can automation be better used to smooth and iron out the conveyancing process?
• Can automation be used to ride out current future volatility?
• Can automation be used to ensure conveyancing remains an attractive career option?

Conveyancer Responsibilities

• The responsibilities of conveyancers have doubled in the last 15-20 years and there seems to be little recognition of that fact.
• 20 years ago, source of funds checking, environmental factors (such as air pollution), local data speeds etc. didn’t exist – but they now do. These have impacted workload and responsibilities.

Raising Conveyancer Profile

• Consumers need to be more aware of the training a conveyancer undertakes, including the insurance required, and the expertise and knowledge they have to offer.
• Consumers understanding the above is vital in better understanding why conveyancer fees are how they are.

More Informed Decision Making

• Upfront information allows for more informed decision making.
• Upfront information coupled with digital ID and digital AML means faster transaction times and fewer sales and purchases falling through.

All of these things are better for both the conveyancer and the consumer (and third parties).

Whilst we wait the CLC Annual Roundtable write-up, the CLC is asking for those interested to join the CLC’s Regulatory Supervision Managers as they provide updates this November on compliance issues.

These events are taking place in 4 locations, London, Bristol, Leeds and Liverpool (all details on the website).  All of these are morning roadshow events and feature a cyber expert.

They will be exploring some key issues for CLC lawyers, including AML, the CLC’s 2023 Risk Agenda, complaints handling, the CLC’s monitoring programme and the evolution of conveyancing and probate. As well as taking your questions.