Role of Property Lawyers in Pre-Settlement Property Inspection

by Shifrin Andrew Solicitors - Wok compensation and Family Lawyers

Purchasing a new property is a complicated task and before finalising a deal, so many steps are there to take. Often, buyers as well as sellers are not aware of all of them and this is why they consider relying upon real estate agents or even property lawyers. In most of these cases, property lawyers are a better choice because they are fully acquainted with the relevant laws, rules, terms and conditions to follow in the process of purchasing a property. A very important step in this process is pre-settlement property inspection and here in this article, we will cover this topic and also the role that these lawyers play in this process.

What Is A Pre-Settlement Property Inspection?

Pre-settlement property inspection is a kind of final inspection or the opportunity given to the buyer party to inspect the property for the last time. This inspection is allowed to make sure that everything claimed by the seller party is there, working in order and since, this is the last inspection, it can also be assumed as the last opportunity to negotiate. This process is usually carried out before the final payment is made and the day is given the name of settlement day. In other words, this process is an opportunity for the buyer party to examine the property and ensure that everything is in the same condition as it was when the contracts were exchanged. This inspection can be done through DIY, but expert solicitors Blacktown recommend seeking the services of property experts for even better results.

Things To Check During A Pre-Settlement Property Inspection

Here is the list of things to check with the help of property experts at the time of pre-settlement property settlement.

• Plumbing

• Lights And Electronics

• Water Heaters

• Air Conditioners And Heaters

• Checking For Pests

• Appliances

• Curtains And Blinds

• Pools And Spa Filters

• Windows And Glass

• Smoke Alarms

• Door Handles And Locks

Apart from these things, it is also the right as well as the duty of the buyer of property lawyers from the buyer side to check whether the property includes all the items that the vendor said they would leave. All these things are mentioned in details in the contract of sale and termed as "INCLUSIONS".

Things To Look For In Detail

According to solicitors Blacktown, so many major and minor things are there to check during this inspection and we have covered the top ones here.

Any Damage To Property

If there is any damage to property, including damage to walls and floors in any part of the property both inside and outside.

Fixtures

A detailed inspection should be done for permanent fixtures such as carpets, windows, doors, curtain tracks, smoke alarms, electrical connections and plumbing connections.

Wear And Tear

It is not an obligation for the seller to clean the property, but it would be good for him, if the property doesn’t show any signs of wear and tear. But yes, it is the obligation to keep the lawn as well as the swimming pool maintained as per council laws.

Non-Fixtures

All removable furniture is non-fixtures and they should be inspected before the settlement day and this should also be ensured that fixed appliances like cooling systems and heating systems are in working order.