Will the conveyancing profession be dead in 5 years time?

I recently attended the SLC Conference and was struck by how extensively AI is already being used within the conveyancing profession. Listening to the speakers, it occurred to me that we may be approaching a point where conveyancers, at least as we currently understand the role, could eventually disappear. Technology is advancing at a remarkable pace, and given how rapidly AI has evolved in just the past two years, the prospect of a conveyancing “Armageddon” may not be as far-fetched as it once seemed.

AI is advancing quickly in document analysis, form completion, workflow automation, and legal reasoning. Within five years, it is very realistic that consumer-facing tools will be able to:

• Auto-populate standard forms from uploaded documents
• Flag missing information
• Check title registers for common issues
• Draft standard enquiries and responses
• Provide simple, generic explanations of the process
• Estimate timelines and manage task reminders
• Integrate ID verification, AML checks, and property data

This could already make parts of the conveyancing process feel “DIY-able” for buyers and sellers, especially for straightforward freehold transactions with no chain and minimal complications.

However, this does not automatically mean widespread consumer adoption. Let me explain why. 

Buying a home is the largest financial transaction most people ever make. Even if AI tools are available, many consumers will prefer a professional’s oversight because:

• Errors can have severe consequences (boundary disputes, title defects, fraud risk)
• Lenders generally require conveyancers, not consumers, to act for them
• Most buyers lack confidence to navigate complex legal documents even with AI help

Risk aversion is one of the strongest forces protecting professional legal work.

Furthermore, mortgage lenders are unlikely to allow consumers to do their own conveyancing entirely, even with AI support, because:

• Lenders need liability to sit with a regulated solicitor/conveyancer
• The current panel system requires qualifications, indemnity insurance, and compliance standards
• No credible insurer is likely to underwrite a DIY user to the level required

This alone slows any “end of conveyancing” scenario dramatically.

AI excels at standardisation, but conveyancing often includes:

• Complex leasehold structures
• Restrictive covenants
• Title defects
• Unregistered land
• Planning issues
• Matrimonial disputes
• Chain complications
• Last-minute lender queries
• Negotiations between parties

AI can assist, but humans are needed to interpret ambiguous situations, negotiate, and accept professional accountability.

It is on the whole more likely the profession transforms, and not disappears

Expect major automation of:

• Initial onboarding
• AML and ID checks
• Basic document drafting
• Standard enquiries
• Progress updates to clients and agents
• Land Registry interactions

This will speed up workflows and reduce administrative burden.

I can also see conveyancers shifting towards higher value work

The role may evolve to focus on:

• Risk assessment
• Complex issue resolution
• Client advisory work
• Negotiation
• Compliance management
• Lender requirements and panel relationships

Clients will still want reassurance from a regulated professional – especially in high-value property markets.

One thing is clear however those firms who embrace AI will thrive. 

Firms that adopt AI tools may actually:

• Handle more files with fewer administrative hours
• Reduce turnaround times
• Improve client communication
• Gain competitive advantage
• Offer enhanced transparency and fixed-fee certainty

Those that do not adopt AI risk falling behind  but the profession itself will not vanish.

So could a DIY-AI revolution ever replace conveyancers?

For that to happen, three things would need to change, and none are likely within five years:

1. Lenders would need to allow completely unrepresented borrowers.
   Currently very unlikely due to liability and fraud concerns.
2. Insurers would need to insure consumer-led conveyancing.
   Again, highly improbable.
3. Property law and regulatory frameworks would need major reform.
   Governments tend to move slowly here.

Even in a highly advanced AI scenario, some human involvement would almost certainly remain mandatory.

AI will significantly transform conveyancing over the next few years, particularly by automating repetitive tasks and improving efficiency.

However, the core role of a regulated, insured, accountable professional is unlikely to be replaced anytime soon, not because AI is incapable, but because:

• The risk is too high
• The regulatory and lender environment will not support it
• Consumers still value expert guidance in complex, stressful transactions

Far from ending the profession, AI is more likely to elevate it, enabling conveyancers to work faster, smarter, and with greater focus on risk management and client care.