The trade body says its Future Digital Conveyancing Protocol includes what digital services firms can use, as well as how they fit with requirements by regulators and the government.  

Firms can access the paper from the download section of the Conveyancing Association website.  

The body adds that its document comes in advance of several technology initiatives in this area, such as the use of digital ID legislation, which is working its way through parliament.   

Also, HM Land Registry is piloting the use of digital signatures with a number of firms.  

The Conveyancing Association director of delivery Beth Rudolf says: “Many Conveyancing Association member firms are already using many of the digital aspects within the process already, and it’s clear they – and their clients – are benefiting from them, so we wanted to produce guidance and recommendations for how all conveyancers can make the most of this, and what standards they should be meeting when utilising these aspects.  

“This is all contained in the protocol, and it has also been written with one eye on the future, in terms of what is coming down the track, hopefully in the months ahead.”  

The paper also comes ahead of the next set of National Trading Standards Estate and Letting Agent Team guidance on the use of material information, which is due in the autumn and is expected to include a review of Part A information, and the launch of Parts B and C.