Conveyancing costs

Introduction

Consumers who have a dispute about the cost of conveyancing work can apply to NCAT. Conveyancers can also apply to NCAT against a consumer – for example, to claim payment for services they have provided.

Disputes about conveyancing costs charged by a solicitor should be directed to the Office of the Legal Services Commissioner.

How to apply

Download and complete an application form. Lodge your application at any NCAT Registry or with Service NSW.

• Conveyancing costs application form (PDF , 93.5 KB)

Fees

Fees are payable for conveyancing costs applications. View our fees and charges.

Time limits

You must apply to NCAT within 60 days of the conveyancer delivering their account or Bill of Costs to the client. 

If you apply outside of the time limit, you can request a time extension as part of your application. NCAT will not always agree to a request for a time extension.

Attach a company ​or business name extract​

You must attach a recent ASIC company or business name extract​ with a conveyancing costs application.

What happens next

NCAT will send you and the other party a notice with the date, time and location at which your case will be heard.

Cases about conveyancing costs are generally listed for conciliation and hearing. Check the notice of hearing carefully and follow the instructions provided.

Orders NCAT can make

NCAT can make the following conveyancing costs orders up to the value of $40,000:

• An order that money be paid or refunded.
• An order that documents in possession or control of another party be returned.
• An order that a bill be paid or not be paid.

Legislation

The following legislation applies to conveyancing costs cases.

• Conveyancers Licensing Act 2003 
• Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 2013