TA6 Mistakes That Kill Property Sales — How to Complete the Property Information Form Correctly

What is the TA6 Form?

The Property Information Form (TA6) is the primary seller disclosure document in England and Wales. It is produced by the Law Society and completed by the seller with the assistance of their solicitor.

The TA6 asks about:

• Boundaries and disputes with neighbours
• Notices and proposals affecting the property
• Alterations and planning permissions
• Guarantees and warranties
• Insurance
• Rights and informal arrangements
• Environmental matters
• Utilities and services

Why Accuracy Matters

The TA6 is a **legal disclosure document**. Inaccurate or misleading answers can expose the seller to a misrepresentation claim. If a buyer suffers loss because the seller made a false statement in the TA6, they may have grounds to claim damages or to rescind the contract.

Common Mistakes

**1. “Not known” when “No” is more accurate**

For questions where you know the answer, give it. A solicitor will see “not known” on easily-knowable questions as an evasion.

**2. Omitting disputes that were resolved**

Even resolved disputes should generally be disclosed if they were significant. The question is whether disputes “have been” raised, not whether they “are” ongoing.

**3. Forgetting older works**

An extension built 20 years ago still requires the relevant planning permission and building regulations sign-off. The age of works does not exempt them from disclosure.

**4. Assuming verbal arrangements are not rights**

If a neighbour has been crossing your land for decades, this may have become a legal easement. Disclose informal arrangements.

**5. Not reading the current edition**

The TA6 is updated periodically. The 5th edition (2021) added questions about Japanese knotweed, flooding, and building safety.

**6. Inconsistency between TA6 and TA10**

The TA6 and TA10 (fixtures and fittings) should be consistent in their descriptions.

Japanese Knotweed

If knotweed is present within 7 metres of the property boundary, this is usually disclosable. If knotweed has been treated and a management plan is in place, disclose this and provide the management plan.

Failing to disclose known knotweed is a significant misrepresentation risk and can cause mortgage lenders to decline the buyer’s application.

The “Seller to Verify” Approach

For questions you are genuinely unsure about, your solicitor can help you phrase the answer accurately — for example, “to the seller’s knowledge and belief, no works were carried out during their ownership.” This is honest without creating a risk from events before your ownership.