Blackpool firm first on the Fylde to be recognised for conveyancing services

The firm is one of just a handful of solicitors in the North West to become a member of the Law Society's Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) - the mark of excellence for the home buying process.

The scheme has been developed by the Law Society and gives successful firms a "kite mark"of professional services. It was introduced to deter fraud within the property market.

Conveyancing accreditation will be vital in order to get onto the panels for building societies and in the future it is expected that mortgage lenders will only work with firms with the CQS accreditation.

Law Society President Linda Lee said: "CQS improves efficiency with common, consistent standards and service levels and enables consumers to recognise practices that provide a quality residential conveyancing service."

"Buying a home is one of the largest purchases anyone will make in their lifetime, so it is essential that it is done to the highest standard by a solicitor. There are many different conveyancing service providers out there, making it difficult for home buyers to identify those which can ensure a safe and efficient level of service."

Warren Spencer, Managing Partner at Blackhurst Budd, said: "We are delighted to be the first firm on the Fylde to have CQS status. This will be vital for our future growth, helping to ensure we are on the panels of the big mortgage lenders as a conveyancing expert. It also shows the public that we are committed to providing the highest standards and level of service."

"Buying a home is an important and stressful time for people, so they will be reassured that they are using a firm which has been given a mark of excellence for the home buying process, by the Law Society."

The scheme requires practices to undergo a strict assessment, compulsory training, self reporting, random audits and annual reviews in order to maintain CQS status. It has the support of the Council of Mortgage Lenders, the Building Societies Association, and the Association of British Insurers.