Undertaking

[LouiG123]

We enquired how much a deed of variation would be on our property.

Our sale fell through

We sold again so enquired if they'd need the full amount upfront, which they did.

The solicitor we enquired about it to, we did not instruct any further sent this today

I need an undertaking for our fees of £1600 plus VAT whether or not the matter proceeds.

I don't really understand this?

An undertaking for fees is usually given by one solicitor to another. They might mean they want money up front from you, in order to enable them to give an undertaking for fees to the solicitors acting for the person granting the Deed of Variation .
Best to call them and ask what this means.

Thank you, I've emailed but I'm inpatient and can't sleep reading the whether or not we proceed because I read that as they want to charge us for something we haven't even requested.

This usually means they need an undertaking (a binding promise from a solicitor) to cover their fees, before they're willing to start the work. This should be easily resolved by explaining that you're not proceeding/not proceeding yet but will be back in contact if you do want them to act for you.

Thank you. I hope so!