Completion day is the final step in the home-buying process, but despite all the preparation, things can sometimes go wrong.

Here are some common issues that may arise on completion day and how to handle them:

1. Delayed Funds Transfer

The most common issue is a delay in transferring funds between solicitors. Reasons include:

• Banking issues or slow processing.
• A chain of buyers and sellers causing bottlenecks.
• Errors in account details or documentation.

How to Avoid:

• Confirm all financial arrangements with your solicitor well in advance.
• Ensure your deposit and mortgage funds are ready for transfer the day before.

2. Problems in the Chain

If you’re part of a property chain, any delays or issues with other buyers or sellers can ripple through the process. For instance:

• Someone further up the chain may experience a delay with their funds.
• A last-minute issue with another property in the chain could stall completion.

How to Avoid:

• Regular communication with your solicitor or estate agent to monitor the chain’s progress.
• Have contingency plans for temporary accommodation if the delay extends overnight.

3. Incomplete Paperwork

If critical documents are missing or incorrect, the sale may not complete.

• Title deeds or contracts may have errors.
• Mortgage conditions may not have been met.

How to Avoid:

• Work closely with your solicitor to ensure all paperwork is in order well before completion day.

4. Access Issues

You may encounter problems with gaining access to the property, such as:

• The seller hasn’t moved out in time.
• Keys not being available or handed over late.

How to Avoid:

• Confirm the key handover process with your solicitor or estate agent ahead of time.
• Build some flexibility into your moving schedule to handle delays.

5. Unexpected Costs

Surprise charges, such as outstanding utility bills or incorrect completion statements, can cause stress.

How to Avoid:

• Double-check the completion statement from your solicitor to ensure all fees are accounted for.
• Ensure sellers have settled their utility and council tax accounts before the move.

6. Last-Minute Damage or Cleaning Issues

Sometimes, the property may not be in the condition expected:

• Sellers may leave behind rubbish or fail to clean the property.
• Damage may occur during the seller’s move.

How to Avoid:

• Include provisions in the contract to ensure the property is left clean and free of items.
• Inspect the property before completion, if possible, to identify any potential issues.

7. Buyer or Seller Pulls Out

In rare cases, a seller or buyer may pull out at the last minute, especially if contracts haven’t been exchanged prior to completion day.

How to Avoid:

• Push for an earlier exchange of contracts to secure the deal legally.
• Consider adding penalties for withdrawing after exchange in the contract.

8. Utilities Not Set Up

Moving into a new home only to find there’s no electricity, water, or gas can be frustrating.

How to Avoid:

• Notify utility providers of your move ahead of time and arrange for services to be active on completion day.

9. Removal Delays

Your moving company may face delays, causing a knock-on effect with your schedule.

How to Avoid:

• Book a reliable moving company and confirm details well in advance.
• Schedule the removal early in the day to allow extra time for unexpected delays.

10. Emotional Stress

Moving day can be overwhelming, and unexpected problems can add to the pressure.

How to Avoid:

• Keep essential items (like paperwork, toiletries, and a change of clothes) handy in case of delays.
• Stay in regular contact with your solicitor, estate agent, and removal team for updates.

While issues on completion day can be stressful, most can be resolved with preparation and clear communication. By working closely with your solicitor and estate agent, planning ahead, and staying flexible, you can minimise the risks and make completion day as smooth as possible.