Pre-Settlement Inspection in Perth: What to Check Before Getting the Keys

You've signed the contract, organised your finance, and you're almost ready to collect the keys to your new home. But before settlement, there's one important step you shouldn't skip: your pre-settlement inspection.

A pre-settlement inspection gives you the opportunity to check that the property is in the condition required by your contract, that agreed repairs have been completed, and that everything included in the sale is still there.

Here's what Perth property buyers should know before their final walkthrough.

When Should You Book Your Pre-Settlement Inspection?

In Western Australia, the standard Joint Form of General Conditions generally allows buyers one final inspection within five business days before settlement or possession.

However, your contract may contain different arrangements, so always check the specific conditions.

Try to book your inspection close to settlement, while allowing enough time to raise any concerns.

Your Pre-Settlement Inspection Checklist

When walking through the property, pay particular attention to these five things.

1. Check for New Damage

Look for damage that wasn't there when you originally inspected the property.

Check walls, floors, windows, doors, and outdoor areas for anything that may have changed since signing.

2. Make Sure Everything Included Is Still There

Remember those beautiful curtains or that built-in dishwasher?

Don't assume everything you saw at the home open is included in the sale.

Check your contract for included fixtures, fittings and appliances, and make sure they're still at the property.

3. Check Any Agreed Repairs

If the seller agreed to complete repairs before settlement, now is your opportunity to check they've been done.

Refer to any special conditions in your contract to understand exactly what was promised.

4. Test Fixtures and Appliances

Where practical and safe, check taps, lights, air conditioning, hot water, and appliances included in the sale.

A final walkthrough isn't a replacement for a professional building inspection, but it can help identify obvious problems.

5. Check Outside Too

Don't forget the garage, garden, fencing, pool equipment, and outdoor storage areas.

Check for new damage, missing inclusions, or anything that doesn't match what was agreed.

What If You Find Something Wrong?

First, take photographs and make notes.

Then contact your conveyancer or lawyer as soon as possible, ideally before settlement.

Depending on your contract, you may be able to request repairs, negotiate a resolution, or explore other options.

Don't assume you can automatically delay settlement because you've discovered a problem. Your rights depend on your contract and the circumstances.

Why Understanding Your Contract Matters

Your property contract doesn't just matter when you're signing it. It also determines what the seller must deliver before settlement.

That's why understanding inclusions, special conditions, and settlement obligations from the beginning is so important.

A BuySecure AI contract review helps you identify important clauses, conditions, and potential risks in your actual property contract, explained in plain English.

For just $79, you can receive your review in around five minutes, with Bella, BuySecure's AI conveyancing assistant, available to answer follow-up questions.

Built and backed by Australian law firm, lawlab, BuySecure helps buyers understand what they're agreeing to before they sign. For personalised advice about an inspection dispute, speak with your conveyancer or lawyer.

One Last Check Before Moving Day

Your pre-settlement inspection is your chance to make sure the property matches what you agreed to purchase.

Bring your contract, take your time, and raise any concerns before settlement.

Because understanding what you're buying is just as important as knowing what you're signing.

Visit www.buysecure.com.au to get started.