Protocol forms: what must sellers disclose?

When selling a property, completing the Law Society Protocol Forms is a key part of the conveyancing process. These forms are designed to ensure buyers receive clear, accurate, and consistent information about the property before they commit to the purchase.

Failure to complete the forms properly, or to disclose relevant information, can lead to delays, disputes, or in some cases legal claims after completion. This article explains what the Protocol Forms are, when they should be completed, and what sellers are required to disclose.

What are the Law Society Protocol Forms?

The Conveyancing Protocol Forms are standardised documents issued by the Law Society. They are used across residential transactions to promote transparency and consistency between sellers and buyers.

The main forms you are likely to be asked to complete are:

• TA6 Property Information Form
• TA10 Fittings and Contents Form
• TA7 Leasehold Information Form (where the property is leasehold)

These forms are usually included in the draft contract pack provided to the buyer’s solicitor.

When should the Protocol Forms be completed?

Sellers are commonly asked to complete the Protocol Forms when they first instruct their conveyancing solicitor. In some cases, estate agents may request that the forms are completed at the point the property is marketed, which can help reduce delays once a buyer is found.

If you are unsure how to answer any question, it is important to seek legal advice. Each form is accompanied by guidance notes and it is always better to state that you do not know an answer, rather than guessing.

TA6 Property Information Form: what must a seller disclose?

The TA6 Property Information Form provides detailed information about the property itself. Sellers must disclose any information that could reasonably affect a buyer’s decision to proceed or the price they are prepared to pay.

The form covers a wide range of issues, some of which are:

• Boundaries and boundary responsibilities
• Any past or ongoing disputes with neighbours
• Alterations or changes of use, including works carried out without the necessary consents, even if historic
• Known structural issues or defects
• Guarantees and warranties affecting the property
• Services connected to the property
• Flooding history
• Buildings insurance

All questions must be answered honestly and to the best of the seller’s knowledge. If a seller fails to disclose relevant information, or provides misleading information, this may amount to misrepresentation and could allow the buyer to seek compensation or, in serious cases, rescind the contract.

TA10 Fittings and Contents Form: what is included in the sale?

The TA10 Fittings and Contents Form clarifies exactly what is included in the sale price.

The form lists items on a room‑by‑room basis and requires the seller to confirm whether each item is:

• Included in the sale
• Excluded from the sale
• Available by separate negotiation

Typical items include kitchen appliances, bathroom fittings, light fittings, mirrors, curtains, and garden items. Once incorporated into the contract at exchange, the TA10 becomes legally binding. Completing it carefully helps avoid misunderstandings or disputes on completion.

TA7 Leasehold Information Form: additional disclosure for leasehold properties

Where the property is leasehold, sellers must also complete the TA7 Leasehold Information Form. This provides important information about the ongoing obligations associated with leasehold ownership.

Sellers are required to disclose, to the best of their knowledge:

• Current ground rent and service charge amounts
• Any arrears relating to ground rent or service charges
• Restrictions contained within the lease
• Details of the freeholder, management company, and managing agent
• Any disputes with the managing agents or freeholder

Given the financial and legal responsibilities associated with leasehold property, full and accurate disclosure is particularly important.

Why is full disclosure so important?

Accurate disclosure helps ensure a smooth transaction and reduces the risk of disputes after completion. Providing incomplete or misleading information can expose a seller to a claim for misrepresentation.

You may find it helpful to read our related article on misrepresentation in property transactions, which explains the potential legal consequences in more detail.

How can Pinney Talfourd help?

Completing the Protocol Forms can raise questions, particularly where issues such as historic works, neighbour disputes, or leasehold obligations are involved.

Our Residential Property team regularly advises sellers on their disclosure obligations and can guide you through every stage of the conveyancing process. If you would like advice tailored to your circumstances, please contact Pinney Talfourd on 0800 011 1195.