Momentum behind digital change in conveyancing will build throughout 2026, delegates at the Conveyancing Association’s 25th annual conference were told.
Speakers at this year’s Conveyancing Association conference said the sector is on the cusp of significant operational change, with digital reform expected to gather pace over the next 12 months.
The event, held on 12 February at The Belfry Hotel & Resort and sponsored by Landmark Information Group, was titled ‘Conveyancing Under the Spotlight’ and brought together representatives from across the property industry, consumer groups and digital providers.
Opening proceedings, non-executive chair Nicky Heathcote set out the association’s current lobbying priorities. These include challenging proposals to charge conveyancers for access to the Lenders’ Handbook, raising concerns about requirements to register as tax advisers in relation to SDLT submissions, and opposing suggestions that interest earned on client accounts could be used to fund the justice system.
Heathcote also referenced the recent collapse of a law group and the coordinated response from CA members to support affected staff and clients, describing it as an example of the organisation’s collective strength.
Conference chair Eddie Goldsmith reflected on the sector’s development over the past two decades, noting that digital solutions are now in a position to support a more transparent and efficient home buying and selling process.
David Smith, economics editor at The Sunday Times, examined the broader macroeconomic and housing market backdrop, while Rob Gurney and colleagues from Landmark reviewed current residential property trends.
Panel sessions during the day explored both the pressures and opportunities facing conveyancers, including government consultations on reform of the home buying and selling process and proposals for greater upfront information. Delegates heard that these initiatives are likely to lead to legislative change.
There was also discussion of artificial intelligence and its growing influence on transactions, alongside wider digital developments expected to reshape operational processes for firms and alter the client experience.
The conference concluded with a drinks reception sponsored by Stewart Title and a charity dinner, at which more than £8,000 was raised for Parkinson’s UK.
DIGITAL CHANGE NOW UNDER WAY
Nicky Heathcote (pictured), non-executive chair of the Conveyancing Association, said: “In opening the Conference, I wanted to focus on the work we are doing right now on behalf of our members on some very pressing issues. These are not abstract debates.
“They go to the heart of how conveyancing firms operate and serve their clients. Also, the recent response to the collapse of a law group also sums up what the CA community stands for.
“I was heartened by the strength of feeling in the room to help all those impacted. Another clear message from this year’s Conference was that digital change is no longer a future aim, it is happening now and it will gather pace throughout 2026.
“Over the past 25 years the CA has pushed for a more open, joined-up and efficient home moving process. What we heard from our speakers is the tools to support that ambition are now in place.
“But it will take commitment from every part of the sector to make the most of them. Conveyancers, lenders, agents, tech firms and government must move in step if we are to see real and lasting improvement.
“We also had honest debate about the risks as well as the rewards. Reform of the home buying and selling process, the move towards more upfront information, and the growing use of AI will all shape how firms operate and how clients experience the transaction.
“Our role is to ensure conveyancers have a strong voice in those discussions and any change works in practice, not just in theory. If we keep the focus on better outcomes for clients, then the progress we discussed at Conference can translate into genuine change on the ground.
“I would also like to thank our Headline Sponsor, Landmark Information Group, all of our sponsors, and every panellist and delegate who joined us at The Belfry. Their support allows us to stage an event of this scale and quality, and to bring the sector together in a constructive way.
“I am particularly grateful for the generosity shown at our Charity Dinner, where we raised over £8,000 for Parkinson’s UK. It is a charity very close to my heart, and the funds raised will make a real difference to those living with the condition and to the vital work the charity carries out.”
Eddie Goldsmith, Conveyancing Association conference chair, added: “This year’s Conference showed how far the sector has come, but also how much work remains.
“Digital tools now offer real scope to improve transparency and speed within the home moving process, yet progress will depend on collaboration and a clear focus on practical delivery.
“It was encouraging to see such open discussion about both the opportunities and the pressures facing conveyancers today.”
