Newcastle-based property group LSL has acquired a West Yorkshire search specialist as it looks to strengthen the support it provides to its franchise partners.
LSL has confirmed the acquisition of National Search Service (NSS), one of the longest-established property search companies operating across England and Wales. The value of the deal has not been disclosed.
Founded in 2004, Huddersfield-based NSS is a family-owned business employing 15 people, according to its latest accounts.
The firm provides property searches to the legal profession, both directly and through a franchising model, and counts a number of the UK’s largest law firms and estate agents among its clients.
BOLT-ON ACQUISITION
Business Live reports that NSS is regulated by the Property Codes Compliance Board and subscribes to the Search Code, reflecting its focus on compliance and service standards.
LSL said the bolt-on acquisition complements its existing conveyancing proposition, delivered through Homefast, and further strengthens its position as a leading estate agency franchisor. The group owns brands including E.surv Chartered Surveyors, Your Move and Reeds Rains.
The NSS business will transfer to LSL in its entirety, with no operational changes planned. The founders will remain with the business to ensure continuity of service and support a smooth transition.
QUALITY AND COMPLIANCE
Paul Hardy (main picture, inset), Managing Director of LSL Estate Agency Franchising, says: “We are pleased to welcome NSS into the LSL Group.
“Their reputation for quality and compliance aligns perfectly with our values, and this acquisition will enhance the support we offer to our franchise partners and clients across England and Wales.”
The deal follows LSL’s annual Estate Agency Franchise conference last month, where the listed group revealed that franchisees completed 10 lettings book acquisitions in 2025, up from three in 2024, as part of its wider growth strategy.
