In the process of buying or selling property, one of the first things we will ask for is proof of your identity. Requesting ID is not just standard practice, it’s a legal requirement that protects everyone involved in the transaction.
The primary reason ID is required is compliance with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations. Law firms and conveyancers are legally obligated to verify the identity of their clients to prevent money laundering, fraud, and other criminal activities.
Why ID Checks Are Essential in Property Transactions
Buying or selling property is one of the most common ways illicit funds are “cleaned.” Criminals may attempt to use property transactions to legitimise money obtained through illegal means. To combat this, legal professionals must perform due diligence to ensure their clients are who they say they are and that the funds involved come from legitimate sources. Fraudsters can pose as property owners to illegally sell or mortgage a property they don’t own. This is especially common with vacant properties, tenanted properties, properties without a mortgage and elderly or vulnerable property owners.
The Legal Requirement for ID Checks in Property Transactions
By verifying your ID, conveyancers reduce the risk of fraudulent transactions. This protects not only their clients but also the integrity of the wider property market.
As part of their professional obligations, solicitors and conveyancers must carry out client due diligence, which includes verifying your identity, understanding the source of funds and assessing the nature of the transaction.
Without proper ID verification we cannot proceed with your matter — not only because it would be a breach of regulation, but because it could potentially facilitate criminal activity.
For all parties involved, ID verification adds transparency to the process. It’s a reassurance that everyone involved is genuine, and that the transaction is being conducted properly.
Typically, the ID you will need to provide are:
- one form of photographic ID (eg Passport or Driving Licence)
- one proof of address (eg utility bill, bank statement, council tax bill — dated within the last 3 months).
These can all be provided via an electronic ID verification app which is simple and easy to use.
Providing ID might feel like a formality, but it plays a vital role in protecting you, your property, and the entire conveyancing process. These checks are not designed to make things difficult — they are there to ensure that property transactions are secure, transparent, and compliant with the law.
Contact us for Residential Conveyancing Advice
Need expert guidance on your property transaction? Contact our residential conveyancing team today for personalised advice on 01924 290 029, or contact us using our online enquiry form.
Residential Conveyancing FAQs
Solicitors must check your identity to comply with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations. This helps prevent fraud, money laundering, and protects all parties in a property transaction.
Typically, you’ll need a government-issued photo ID (like a passport or driving licence) and proof of address (such as a utility bill or bank statement). Your solicitor will confirm the exact requirements.
No. ID verification is a legal requirement. Delaying it can slow down your property transaction and may even prevent the sale or purchase from completing.
Most ID checks are quick and can be completed within a day if you provide the required documents promptly. Delays usually occur if documents are missing, unclear, or need further verification.
Yes. Under UK law, all conveyancing transactions must include identity verification to comply with Anti-Money Laundering regulations, regardless of property type or value.
Your solicitor may request additional documents or refuse to proceed until compliant ID is provided. Using outdated or incorrect documents can delay the transaction or create legal complications.
The content of this blog post is for information only and does not constitute formal legal advice and should not be relied upon as advice. Thornton Jones Solicitors Limited accepts no liability for any such reliance upon this content. Where the post includes links to external websites, Thornton Jones Solicitors Limited accepts no responsibility for the content of such sites. Any link to a third-party website should not be construed as endorsement by Thornton Jones Solicitors Limited of any content, products or services which are outside our direct control.
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Garforth
Leeds
LS25 1LJ
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Ossett
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6 Finkle Hill
Sherburn in Elmet
Leeds
LS25 6EA
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