Digital transformation across the conveyancing sector is expected to accelerate throughout 2026, according to speakers at this year’s Conveyancing Association (CA) Annual Conference.
Held on Thursday 12th February at The Belfry Hotel & Resort and titled ‘Conveyancing Under the Spotlight’, the conference brought together stakeholders from across the property industry, consumer groups and technology providers to examine current pressures and future developments affecting the home-moving process.
Opening the event, CA non-executive chair Nicky Heathcote outlined the association’s current lobbying work, including challenges to proposals to charge conveyancers for access to the Lenders’ Handbook, concerns over requirements to register as tax advisers for SDLT submissions, and opposition to suggestions that interest earned on client accounts could be used to fund the justice system.
She also referenced the sector’s response to the recent collapse of a law group, highlighting collaborative efforts to support affected staff and clients.
Conference chair Eddie Goldsmith reflected on the sector’s progress over the past two decades and the growing role of digital tools in improving transparency and efficiency in property transactions.
Sessions throughout the day covered macro-economic trends, housing market conditions, government consultations on reform of the home buying and selling process, and the move toward upfront information requirements.
Speakers also examined the impact of artificial intelligence and wider digital developments expected to reshape operational practices for firms and the consumer experience.
The event concluded with a drinks reception and charity dinner, raising over £8,000 for Parkinson’s UK.
Heathcote said: “In opening the Conference, I wanted to focus on the work we are doing right now on behalf of our members on some very pressing issues.
“These are not abstract debates. They go to the heart of how conveyancing firms operate and serve their clients.
“Also, the recent response to the collapse of a law group also sums up what the CA community stands for, and I was heartened by the strength of feeling in the room to help all those impacted.”
She continued: “Another clear message from this year’s Conference was that digital change is no longer a future aim, it is happening now and it will gather pace throughout 2026.
“Over the past 25 years the CA has pushed for a more open, joined-up and efficient home moving process.
“What we heard from our speakers is the tools to support that ambition are now in place, but it will take commitment from every part of the sector to make the most of them.
“Conveyancers, lenders, agents, tech firms and Government must move in step if we are to see real and lasting improvement.
Heathcote added: “We also had honest debate about the risks as well as the rewards. Reform of the home buying and selling process, the move towards more upfront information, and the growing use of AI will all shape how firms operate and how clients experience the transaction.
“Our role is to ensure conveyancers have a strong voice in those discussions and any change works in practice, not just in theory. If we keep the focus on better outcomes for clients, then the progress we discussed at Conference can translate into genuine change on the ground.”
Goldsmith said: “This year’s Conference showed how far the sector has come, but also how much work remains.
“Digital tools now offer real scope to improve transparency and speed within the home moving process, yet progress will depend on collaboration and a clear focus on practical delivery.
“It was encouraging to see such open discussion about both the opportunities and the pressures facing conveyancers today.”
