Property sales in Bracknell have been severely delayed after an IT failure at the local authority prevented Local Authority search results from being returned.

Kevin Winchester of Bridges estate agents says: “Since the middle of January, sales have been affected by the failure of Local Authority Search results to be returned by Bracknell Forest Council.

“Having reviewed the number of sales agreed in that period, I believe the delays could have impacted several hundred property transactions in the local area.”

Some buyers have been required to seek alternative lending arrangements.”

He adds: “The hold-up has had a knock-on effect throughout the conveyancing process. Some buyers have been required to seek alternative lending arrangements, with at least one mortgage lender NOT willing to proceed without the standard search results.”

According to Winchester, many buyers are facing significant disruption, with some effectively left unable to move forward in their transactions.

Cautious solicitors

He also highlights the part conveyancers have played in the delays: “Many solicitors have taken a more cautious stance, refusing to allow sales to progress until the LLC1, a key component of the Local Land Charges search, has been formally completed, and declining to accept an indemnity insurance policy as a substitute.”

Nationwide, however, has said it would accept “Delayed Search Insurance” where searches cannot be obtained within a reasonable timeframe, subject to “further checks and validation”, adding that search data is needed to ensure “a responsible lending decision” as it may affect a property’s “value and marketability”.

According to Bracknell News, local MP Peter Swallow has since contacted system supplier Arcus Global, urging urgent action and additional council resources to clear the backlog once services resume.