batessolicitors.co.uk Reviews 6

I used Ruby Quarterman to act on the sale of a flat I owned.

I had really good communication, always got called back when I left messages or emailed.

I am an independent mortgage broker and have been for 28 years and was an estate agent for 10 years before doing this so I have used plenty of conveyancers in that time and I would definitely be using Ruby again, next time I need a conveyancer.

We had the pleasure of using the Leigh on Sea office where all the staff are very friendly and helpful. They met our needs and the process very smooth. Every detail was explained on what was required from us and made clear for us to understand too. I would highly recommend this Company and use them again in the future.

I accepted a price for conveyancing from Bates Solicitors. After sending the various forms and other documents back, and having completed the Thirdfort process, their Ben Inkin emailed to ask about the return of several of the documents I had already returned. I asked whether the envelope was damaged. After a further message I asked again; Mr Irkin did not know if it was damaged, but insisted the documents he had asked about were not received.
The exchange left me feeling rather less than valued. I requested the return of the documents I had supplied. When the documents arrived. Something had been spilt over them. No explanation, nor apology. I complained formally and was told the department head, Emily Hale, was on holiday and would respond the following week. A month has passed - nothing heard. This firm is manifestly less than competent, and does not care. Use another firm.

Avoid at all costs. Totally unprofessional and a total lack of customer service. Not proactive in any way, mistakes were made and we had to point out the errors, communication exceptionally poor and basically did not feel like they were working for us. Complaints process non existent as not carried through.

Utterly dreadful from start to finish. The execution of a will was handled very badly. Poorly laid out list of charges. It took a year to get probate. They do nothing proactively without being constantly pushed. The complaints process is a waste of time. When they did respond to comments they blamed the COVID pandemic. Yes, in mid 2025 they blamed the events of four years ago. Avoid at all costs.

They over-egg, overcharge and are generally unhelpful. The quality of drafting is nothing special either. The repeat experience of going back to the for changes is even worse. Save yourself the expense and headache and choose another.