The Law Society of England and Wales has issued a new practice note aimed at helping property solicitors address the growing impact of climate change on their work.
The guidance is intended to support conveyancers who are increasingly expected to consider and advise on environmental risk factors, yet often lack the resources or confidence to do so. The new document builds on the Society’s existing guidance on flood risk and contaminated land, and forms part of a wider drive to equip legal professionals to respond to climate-related issues in property transactions.
The launch follows a detailed consultation process that began in September 2024. During that time, the Law Society engaged with conveyancing solicitors, local law societies, professional associations and industry bodies. Roundtable events and feedback sessions revealed a significant appetite for clearer advice, with many respondents admitting they felt unprepared to discuss climate risks with clients and would welcome further training and support materials.
Law Society vice president Mark Evans said the organisation had listened closely to the profession’s concerns. “We have ensured that the new practice note is positioned as voluntary guidance that seeks to assist the profession in dealing with a new challenge on which they had little clarity in how to deal with,” he said.
“The new practice note includes practical guidance to support solicitors to navigate this important and complex topic. It contains helpful resources, such as draft wording for a report on title that limits their liability, that members have recognised will assist them in dealing with climate risk.”
The note outlines the types of climate risks that may arise during property transactions, how these might be assessed or investigated, and the different approaches required depending on the nature of the transaction. It also offers direction on how to engage with valuation and survey information in light of environmental considerations.
The guidance complements the Law Society’s broader work in sustainability, including its landmark climate change guidance for the legal profession issued in 2023. That earlier document encouraged law firms to integrate climate considerations into their operations and legal advice, prompting many practitioners to seek further clarity on specific practice areas such as residential and commercial conveyancing.
