Hi, we are in the process of buying a 2nd hand home. Our solicitor asked us to come in and sign contracts and loan offer which we did, however, she told us she will not release them until the vendors solicitors forwards appropriate certificates / planning permission for the kitchen extension and some other works around the property. Is this normal? What if the certificates aren't forthcoming - can i ask to see them or better still should i not get a copy of them from the solicitor for future reference in case we want to sell the house on? Should i have signed the contracts at all?