Barclays/Woolwich: The acceptance of personal searches in HIPS

Various stories have suggested that Barclays/Woolwich will not accept personal searches included in Home Information Packs in connection with mortgages.

This is incorrect. As stated in the CML Lenders Handbook (updated June 2007 to take account of the introduction of HIPS) Barclays/Woolwich will accept personal searches but at the conveyancer’s risk. Our policy in this area is in line with other major mortgage lenders.

Solicitors/conveyancers have always taken legal responsibility for searches and this remains the case.