Maintaining CQS accreditation is an ongoing commitment that requires consistent processes, effective risk management and clear client service standards. This FAQ blog covers the key requirements firms need to understand, including how the Core Practice Management Standards apply in practice.
What is CQS and why does it still matter to conveyancing firms in 2026?
The Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) is the recognised quality standard for firms regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) that carry out residential conveyancing in England and Wales. Accreditation demonstrates that a firm operates in line with established expectations around technical competence, risk management and client service, supported by a consistent framework of processes such as use of the Conveyancing Protocol and Law Society standard forms. For conveyancing firms in 2026, CQS continues to matter because it provides a structured approach to delivering reliable, compliant services while helping to manage risk in an increasingly scrutinised market. It also signals credibility to key audiences, giving clients reassurance through the right to display the CQS badge on firm materials, and aligning with the standards mortgage lenders look for when working with conveyancing firms.
Where can you find official resources to help you stay compliant?
Conveyancing firms can access a range of official Law Society resources to support ongoing CQS compliance. The CQS Scheme Rules and Core Practice Management Standards set out what firms are required to do in practice, while the Conveyancing Protocol provides clear guidance on how transactions should be handled. Firms are also expected to follow the CQS Client Charter, which outlines the level of service clients should receive. In addition, accredited practitioners must complete mandatory training through approved providers, as explained in the Law Society’s CQS training guidance. Together, these resources provide firms useful direction on how to meet and maintain CQS standards day to day.
What are the Core Practice Management Standards (CPMS) and what role do they play within CQS?
The CPMS, last updated in 2022, set out the practical requirements that CQS firms must meet. They define the policies, procedures and management approaches expected across seven core areas, including structure and strategy, financial management, information management, people management, risk management, client care, and file and case management. The standards are designed to be flexible, allowing firms to implement them in a way that suits their practice, while still meeting the required outcomes and maintaining compliance.
In practice, the CPMS place a strong emphasis on management and risk control. This includes the need for a business continuity plan to respond to events such as cyber-attacks or data breaches, policies for handling personal data in line with data protection legislation, and a clear approach to learning and development to ensure staff and supervisors are appropriately trained. Firms are also expected to have robust risk management processes in place, such as tracking key dates, monitoring files for inactivity, maintaining an up-to-date anti-money laundering policy, and taking steps to avoid involvement in property and mortgage fraud. There are also specific requirements around SDLT and leasehold work to support clear and accessible advice for clients.
Client care is another central part of the CPMS. Firms must have processes in place to manage new enquiries, protect client confidentiality, and keep clients informed throughout the transaction. A written complaints handling procedure is also required, ensuring that concerns are dealt with consistently and transparently. Together, the CPMS provide a structured but practical framework that supports firms in delivering a compliant, well-managed conveyancing service.
How can firms demonstrate consistency across conveyancing files for CQS purposes?
Firms can demonstrate consistency across conveyancing files for CQS purposes by using a well-structured workflow that supports standardised, compliant processes across the team. A high-quality case management workflow helps ensure that both fee earners and support staff are following the same approach on every file, reducing variation and supporting alignment with the CQS framework and the CPMS.
For example, Intelliworks workflows include dedicated tasks designed to support key areas of compliance. This includes processes for identifying and managing client conflicts, as well as detailed risk assessments to help firms assess the risk of money laundering, property and mortgage fraud, and properly review source of funds and source of wealth. These built-in steps help ensure that important checks are carried out consistently and recorded clearly.
Consistency is also encouraged through tools that support robust supervision and file oversight. Audit trails provide a clear record of activity on each file, while management reports help highlight files that may require attention, such as those with delays or gaps in activity. Alongside this, keeping the case management system up to date in line with changes in regulation and practice guidance is key. This includes ensuring that the latest versions of forms, such as the TA forms used under the Conveyancing Protocol, are available for use.
Document management also plays an important role. Intelliworks’ document library enables firms to provide consistent, high-quality written advice to clients, particularly in areas highlighted in the CPMS such as SDLT and leasehold property. This includes supporting fee earners in giving clear and timely advice on SDLT, with written calculations setting out the amount payable. Intelliworks also offers a suite of materials to help explain the legal, practical and financial implications of leasehold transactions in a clear and accessible way. Together, these approaches help firms demonstrate a consistent, well-managed service across all conveyancing files.
