Will I Get Charged for This Email?

A client asked me a question recently that caught me a bit off guard...

"Will I get charged for this email?"

A few days later, another client asked whether phone calls cost extra.

At that point, I started wondering whether there was a secret conveyancing tariff I'd somehow missed:

• £10 for an email.

• £15 for a phone call.

• £25 if you leave a voicemail.

• £50 if you send an email and then call five minutes later to check I've seen it.

  
  

Thankfully, no.

At least not here.

But it did make me realise that many buyers and sellers are understandably nervous about legal fees and hidden costs. Buying or selling a property can be expensive enough without worrying that every update request is adding another charge to the bill.

So let's clear something up.

Do Conveyancers Charge for Emails and Phone Calls?

In most residential conveyancing transactions, routine communication is simply part of the service. After all, conveyancing would be pretty difficult without emails and phone calls. Clients need updates, estate agents need updates, mortgage brokers need updates and the other side's conveyancer needs updates.

Sometimes everyone wants an update at exactly the same time!

Communication isn't an optional extra and it is a huge part of the job.

If you're buying or selling a property, you should feel comfortable asking questions, requesting updates, and making sure you understand what is happening throughout the transaction.

Why Do People Ask This Question?

Usually because they're worried about unexpected costs Many people only buy or sell property a handful of times in their lives, so it's understandable that they're unsure how legal fees work. Some clients assume that every interaction is charged separately, particularly if they've dealt with professionals in other industries who bill by the hour.

Others are simply worried about being a nuisance. For the record, I'd much rather a client ask a question than spend days or weeks worrying about something unnecessarily.

What Is Usually Included in Conveyancing Fees?

Every firm is different, so it's always important to review your quote and terms of business carefully. However, a standard conveyancing fee will often include:

• Reviewing legal documentation.

• Raising and responding to enquiries.

• Reporting to you on the property.

• Liaising with mortgage lenders.

• Communicating with estate agents.

• Routine telephone calls.

• Routine emails.

• Progressing the transaction through to completion.

  
  

In other words, the day-to-day communication that keeps your transaction moving is generally included within the agreed legal fee.

The Cheapest Conveyancing Quote Isn't Always the Best Value

When comparing conveyancing quotes, it's tempting to focus purely on the price. However, communication can make a huge difference to your overall experience.

A conveyancer might save you £100 on a quote, but if you're waiting days for a response every time you have a question, was it really worth it? For most people, buying or selling a property is one of the largest financial transactions they will ever undertake. Having a conveyancer who responds promptly, explains things clearly, and keeps you updated can make the process feel far less stressful. It is also worth remembering that not all conveyancing firms operate in the same way. Before instructing a conveyancer, take a little time to read reviews, understand how they communicate, and find out what level of service you can expect.

What About Hidden Conveyancing Fees?

This is where buyers and sellers should pay attention. While routine communication is usually included, there can sometimes be additional legal work that falls outside the scope of the original quote.

Examples might include:

• Lease extensions.

• Deeds of variation.

• Trust documentation.

• Complex title issues.

• Shared ownership staircasing.

• Transfer of equity work not originally disclosed.

• Unregistered land.

• Unexpected legal issues discovered during the transaction.

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The important thing is transparency. If additional work is required, your conveyancer should explain why and discuss any associated costs before carrying out that work.

The Real Cost of Poor Communication

Ironically, the biggest issue in conveyancing is rarely too much communication.

It's usually not enough communication. Many of the frustrations people associate with conveyancing arise because they feel they don't know what is happening with their transaction. Buying or selling a property can be stressful. Sometimes a simple update is all it takes to put someone's mind at ease. Even if there has been no major progress, knowing where matters stand can be far more reassuring than silence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I contact my conveyancer for updates?

Absolutely. Buying or selling a property can be stressful, and it's perfectly reasonable to ask for updates throughout the transaction.

Do conveyancers charge for emails?

Routine emails relating to your transaction are generally included as part of the conveyancing service, although you should always check the terms of engagement provided by your chosen firm.

Do conveyancers charge for phone calls?

Routine telephone calls are usually included as part of the service, but it is always sensible to review your quote and terms of business.

Why do conveyancing quotes vary so much?

Different firms have different fee structures, service levels, communication methods, and case volumes. The cheapest quote isn't always the best value.

How often should I chase my conveyancer?

Ideally, you shouldn't feel like you have to. A good conveyancer should keep you informed throughout the transaction and let you know when there are important updates.

Final Thoughts

So, will you get charged for that email?

Generally, no.

Communication is one of the most important parts of the conveyancing process, and clients should never feel nervous about asking questions or requesting updates.

Buying or selling a property is stressful enough without wondering whether every email comes with an invoice attached.

I believe communication should be straightforward. Whether that's by phone, email, or WhatsApp, clients should feel comfortable getting in touch when they need support throughout their transaction.