FAQ
Important: The FAQs below were written and published before the introduction of the SRA Handbook on 6 October 2011, and may refer to regulatory material that is no longer in effect. Although they may still be relevant, these FAQs have not yet been reviewed in light of the wide-ranging regulatory changes implemented on 6 October. They will be reviewed and updated (or archived) in due course.
I have been instructed by a seller of a residential property in an arm's length transaction. The buyer has instructed my colleague in our branch office. Can the firm act for both parties?
Yes, provided
- each client is represented by two separate office in different localities and neither client has been referred to their office by another office of the firm; and
- there is no conflict of interest and one does not arise; and
- you have the clients’ informed written consent (see rule 3, guidance note 77 of the Code); and
- the seller is not selling as builder or developer; and
- different fee earners and supervisors in each office deal with the matter.
See rules 3.07, 3.09 and 3.10.