BLB Solicitors, a conveyancing firm operating six offices across the South West, entered administration on 30 April 2026 after a planned sale of the business collapsed at short notice.
The firm, which has offices in Bristol, Bath, Swindon, Trowbridge, Bradford-on-Avon and Almondsbury, ceased trading at midday on Thursday. BLB employs more than 40 solicitors and handles conveyancing work for property transactions across the region.
Client impact
A notice posted on the company’s website confirmed the closure, stating: “We regret to confirm that BLB Solicitors Limited will cease to trade and be placed into administration with effect from midday on 30 April 2026.”
Clients with active property transactions have been advised to instruct alternative legal representation. Rob Clark, a buyer using BLB’s services, told the BBC he was uncertain how the closure would affect his purchase. “I’m very surprised, I wouldn’t believe a company that big could go under so quickly,” he said.
The firm attributed the closure to “the anticipated sale of the business being withdrawn at short notice.” A letter sent to clients stated that BLB was preparing files and documents for transfer to new solicitors and was “actively engaging with other interested parties” for a potential sale that could allow the firm to continue operating.
Market context
The collapse comes at a time when the property sector is experiencing broader operational pressures. Recent debates around upfront information requirements have highlighted challenges facing conveyancing firms, whilst wider market shifts have seen over 250,000 former rental homes listed for sale in the past year, potentially affecting transaction volumes.
BLB assured clients that it was working to ensure a “swift and smooth transfer” of cases and apologised for the additional stress caused by the unexpected closure. The firm has not disclosed the identity of the potential buyer or the reasons behind the withdrawal of the sale.
