Your Final Inspection Checklist

Your Pre-Settlement Final Inspection Checklist

Settlement day is nearly here, congratulations!

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Before you officially take ownership, you’ll have the chance to carry out a pre-settlement inspection. This is your opportunity to make sure the property is in the same condition as when you signed the contract, and that any agreed inclusions or repairs are in place.

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Here is our no-BS checklist, broken into key rooms to help make your life easy.

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How to Start the Inspection:

When you first walk into the property, switch on the following straight away:

• Heating/cooling - air conditioning units.
• Kitchen - turn on oven and dishwasher, if applicable.

While these are running, begin walking room by room with the below checklist. (Note: if you notice issues when turning on the above, immediately turn it off and notify the seller/agent).

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General Condition of Each Room (Interior & Exterior):

1. Structural - check walls, ceilings and floors for any new damage, cracks, stains or marks.
2. Doors & windows - open, shut, close, lock, unlock all doors and windows.
3. Fixtures & fittings - ensure all ligh bulbs, fittings, blinds, curtains, etc. are present.
4. Rubbish - confirm the property is free from rubbish and unwanted belongings.

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Utilities and Services:

1. Electrical checks - test all light switches (including dimmers), power points, ceiling fans and air conditioning units. (Tip: Easiest way to check power points, is to bring a phone charger to plug into the wall. If your phone charges, then it's a great sign that the outlet is working).
2. Taps on - turn on taps to check water pressure and hot water system.
3. Toilet - flush toilet to ensure free of blockages.
4. Appliances - check appliances are operation (e.g., gas stove working).

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Kitchen & Laundry:

1. Stove & oven - test the oven, stove, rangehood, dishwasher and other appliances (if applicable).
2. Sinks - check sinks, taps and drains for leaks or blockages, and water pressure.
3. General condition check - as per above.

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Bathrooms:

1. Sink, shower and baths - check for good drainage and how quick hot water system engages.
2. Mould and leaks - look for leaks, mould or damp smells.
3. Mirror and railings - make sure mirrors, towel rails and all fittings are tightly secured.
4. General condition check - as per above.

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Exterior & Outdoor Areas:

1. Fence and gate - inspect fences, open/close gates and sheds.
2. Garden - check that lawns, gardens and pools (if applicable) are maintained.
3. Test taps - for pressure and drainage, and don't forget to check if the irrigation/sprinkler system is operational.
4. Light - ensure outdoor lights are working and not filled with water or new damage.
5. Garage door - open and close to ensure operational.

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Agreed Repairs & Special Conditions:

• Confirm any repairs or works specified in your contract have been completed and visually inspect.
• Cross-check inclusions against your contract of sale.
• Take photos of anything that doesn’t match expectations.

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Final Tip

DO NOT RUSH THE FINAL INSPECTION.

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Real estate agents or sellers may try to hurry you along, but this is your last chance to inspect before settlement. Take your time, work through the checklist room by room, and take photos/videos for peace of mind.

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Remember... it's always easier to request for items to be rectified prior to settlement, then having to chase the previous owner up post-settlement.