Conducting a final inspection is a crucial step in the home-buying process. Here’s why it’s so important:       

1. Identifying Issues: The final inspection allows you to thoroughly assess the property to identify any issues or discrepancies that may have arisen since your initial inspection.       
2. Contractual Compliance: It ensures that the property aligns with the terms and conditions outlined in the contract. If there are any deviations, you can address them before the settlement.       
3. Repairs and Rectifications: If you discover any issues during the final inspection, you can notify the selling agent and your settlement agent. This initiates the process of addressing and rectifying any necessary repairs or adjustments before the property officially becomes yours.       
4. Satisfaction and Assurance: The final inspection gives you peace of mind by ensuring that the property meets your expectations and is in the agreed-upon condition. It’s your last chance to confirm that everything is in order before the settlement takes place.

In essence, the final inspection is a safeguard to protect your interests and ensure a smooth transition of property ownership without any surprises or unresolved issues. 

When To Book

The final inspection should be conducted within 5 days of the anticipated settlement date and can be arranged by contacting the selling agent, or the agent’s settlement team.

Planning the visit in advance and coordinating a suitable time with the selling agent, vendor and tenant, if required, is a courteous and legally sound practice. Some states require it to be conducted during business hours only.

Who To Bring

Various states have rules around who can attend a final inspection, and it is generally accepted that it is only the purchaser/s, plus two witnesses. Bringing the entire family is certainly not acceptable and can be very distracting.

It is essential for buyers to conduct the inspection themselves (or through an authorised representative), and with the real estate agent. It is good practice to have the vendor attend, so request their attendance if possible. No one knows the property better to explain and demonstrate the properties functionality when required. It is a great time to ask any questions, so make notes in advance so you don’t forget.

It is important to note that it is not legal to show up unannounced and demand entry to a property that is not yet under your ownership. Respecting the privacy and rights of the current owner is not only a legal requirement but also a fundamental aspect of a smooth and respectful home-buying process.

What To Bring

It is a great idea to bring something to check the power points.

Even better, purchase a power point tester from Bunnings for about $14.00 rather than using a phone charger or hair dryer. This will check is the connections and highlight if there are any issues with the wiring, or the fittings.

Available at the following link: https://www.bunnings.com.au/deta-power-outlet-tester-plug_p4420488  

What To Check

Keep a cool head. Do not get carried away and excited that you can view the property again. Start at the front and work your way to the back. Go room by room and check everything for correct operation.

The list of points to check are included in the Final Inspection Checklist – Purchaser download at the bottom of the article.

What If Something Is Wrong?

If you come across anything that’s not functioning during the inspection, make a note of it as you go. Once the inspection is complete, send an email to both the selling agent and your settlement agent listing the items you believe require rectification according to the terms of the contract.

Your settlement agent will then assess whether these issues are covered under the contractual terms. If they are, the necessary repairs must be carried out by the vendor before the settlement. You might need to schedule a reinspection after the repairs are done to ensure your satisfaction before instructing the settlement agent to proceed with the final settlement.

This meticulous process ensures that any agreed-upon repairs are addressed before the property officially changes hands. 😀

Final Inspection Checklist – Purchaser