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HSBC Conveyancing panel Dear Colleagues, As of August 29, all Conveyancing Quality Scheme members have automatically joined HSBC’s conveyancing panel. Since the agreement between the Law Society and HSBC in May to expand the bank’s panel to include all CQS firms, we have been working with the bank to synchronise our systems to ensure the bank can see whether a customer’s solicitor is CQS accredited. HSBC has piloted the scheme and also trained all frontline staff to explain the new arrangements to customers. CQS firms do not need to apply to join the panel, having CQS automatically places you on the HSBC panel. Currently, sole practitioners with CQS accreditation can only act for the bank and the client on mortgages up to £150,000. However, we continue to work with HSBC with a view to increasing that level of borrowing in relation to sole practitioner firms. The Society campaigned to secure HSBC panel membership for CQS firms. CQS firms also have automatic membership to Clydesdale and Yorkshire Bank conveyancing panels. We are always keen to hear how the new arrangements are progressing. Any queries should be directed to our Practice Advice Service on 0870 606 2522 Yours sincerely Ben Harrison Accreditation and CQS Technical Manager The Law Society |
