Solicitor's fees when buying new apt

[Ro_Ki]

Hi,
We got the bill from the solicitor today. Instead of 950+VAT we some how have 1500+. Ok, to be fair part of that is some sort of swearing and land reg but we are also being charged for the 'phone/fax/ etr'! it is 95euro + VAT = 120euro!!!!! i just find outrageous! Why not include the office rental too! he says- 'as per letter blabla, you were advised of some additional service charges' - never had a phone charge mentioned to us before.

Is every solicitor in this country charging for 'phone expences'?
Should i send him the bill for my faxes and phone calls?

looking forward to your responces.

 

[NicolaM]

Hi
This would seem a fairly standard fee for conveyencing, in fact seems quite reasonable compaired to what I paid 4 years ago!
Stationary/outlay/expenses etcwere included in my bill too
Nicola

 

[ClubMan]

We got the bill from the solicitor today. Instead of 950+VAT we some how have 1500+.

Are you sure that the offer was not €950 (solicitor's professional conveyancing fee) plus VAT plus outlays (e.g. Land Registry etc.)?

Ok, to be fair part of that is some sort of swearing and land reg

Looks like it is?

but we are also being charged for the 'phone/fax/ etr'! it is 95euro + VAT = 120euro!!!!! i just find outrageous! Why not include the office rental too! he says- 'as per letter blabla, you were advised of some additional service charges' - never had a phone charge mentioned to us before.

If you are not happy with specific itemised costs (or want a further breakdown) then tell the solicitor.

Is every solicitor in this country charging for 'phone expences'?

Many or most I would say. Some subsume such costs of doing business into an overall headline charge. Some itemise them.

Should i send him the bill for my faxes and phone calls?

No - he was providing you with a service not the other way around.

You should read this thread:

Useful background information on the legal work involved in conveyancing