We can manage all legal aspects, from land acquisition to plot sales, so you can focus on delivering your project.
At Wallace Robinson & Morgan, we provide comprehensive legal services tailored to property developers involved in the acquisition of land, planning and development, and the subsequent sale of newly built properties. From land acquisition to completion, we ensure your development project is legally sound, compliant with regulations, and structured to meet your commercial objectives.
Our Property Developer Services Include:
1. Land Acquisition and Due Diligence
- Due Diligence
We conduct thorough due diligence on the land, ensuring that there are no legal, financial, or regulatory barriers that could affect the development. This includes reviewing the title deeds, checking for any encumbrances, such as easements or covenants, and ensuring that the land has proper access rights and utilities. We also review planning consents, environmental assessments, and any existing agreements or obligations attached to the land. - Contract Negotiation and Documentation
We handle the negotiation of the sale and purchase agreements, ensuring that all terms are fair and provide adequate protection for the developer. This may include conditional contracts, dependant on successful planning applications, or negotiating option agreements or overages. Our team drafts and reviews contracts to ensure that the acquisition is structured in a way that meets your financial and commercial objectives, including provisions for any conditions precedent such as obtaining planning permission or financing. - Funding and Financing
For developers requiring financing, we assist in negotiating and securing funding arrangements with banks or investors. This includes advising on the structuring of loan agreements, mortgages, or joint venture partnerships to fund the land acquisition and development process.
2. Planning and Regulatory Compliance
- Environmental and Land Use Considerations
We help developers comply with environmental regulations, including assessing any potential contamination or protected land issues. - Section 106 Agreements and Community Infrastructure Levies (CIL)
We advise on the negotiation and drafting of Section 106 agreements, which can include developer contributions to local infrastructure, community amenities, or affordable housing. We also assist in managing obligations related to the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), ensuring compliance with local government policies on infrastructure development.
3. Sale of New Build Properties
- Plot Sales and Off-Plan Sales
Once the development is underway, we assist developers in selling individual units or properties. This includes drafting sales contracts for off-plan or new-build property sales, advising on deposits, payment terms, and completion procedures. We ensure that the sales process is legally compliant and structured to minimise risks. - Consumer Protection and Warranty
Developers must comply with consumer protection laws when selling new build properties. Our team advises on the provision of warranties and guarantees, such as those offered under the National House Building Council (NHBC) or other industry-standard protections. We also assist in drafting terms and conditions to ensure clear disclosure of any potential risks or issues to buyers.
4. Post-Completion and Ongoing Legal Support
- Defects Liability and Warranty Claims
After the completion of the development, we assist with managing any defects liability period, ensuring that any claims from buyers or owners are addressed promptly and efficiently. Our team helps with the enforcement of warranties and guarantees, protecting both the developer and the end buyer. - Dispute Resolution
In the event of disputes with contractors, buyers, or other stakeholders, we provide expert dispute resolution services. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, our team works to resolve any conflicts swiftly, minimising disruption to the project or your reputation.
Why Choose Wallace Robinson & Morgan for Your Development Project?
Our experienced team offers a full range of legal services for property developers, from land acquisition through to the sale of new build properties. Over the last ten years, we have grown our development team to assist several large developers in the region and have the structure and systems embedded to make the process smooth and efficient.
We understand the challenges and complexities of the development process and are committed to providing practical, commercially focused legal advice to help you achieve your goals. Whether you are a first-time developer or an experienced property investor, we are here to guide you through every stage of the process, ensuring your development project is legally sound and successful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about acquiring land. Our FAQs guide you through the steps to ensure a smooth and informed transaction.
Yes – we act for developers of all sizes in preparing and managing new build plot sales. We handle everything from drafting plot-specific contracts and dealing with Help to Buy or management company arrangements, to liaising with buyers’ solicitors and ensuring a smooth, compliant sale process.
Ideally, you should involve us at the earliest possible stage – even before a site is secured. Early legal input can identify potential risks, advise on planning or access rights, and ensure any conditional contracts or options are structured to your advantage. We can also help manage timeframes and ensure that often overlooked aspects don’t cause delays further down the line.
Absolutely. We regularly work alongside developers, land agents, planners and lenders to facilitate residential and mixed-use developments. Our team understands the commercial pressures and timelines involved, and we provide proactive, commercially minded legal support from start to finish. We have also built strong relationships with sales agents and developed streamlined processes working closely alongside them to ensure all parties are kept well-informed.
Our Dedicated Team
Book an appointment with our experienced commercial solicitors, who will understand your needs and provide tailored advice for your business matters.
Call us at 0121 705 7571 or fill out the form below. Your privacy is guaranteed, and we’ll arrange a convenient time to discuss your needs.
Anna Hobbs
Julian Spence
Sarah Nixon
Sophia Kenna
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