Purchasing a new home is an exciting milestone. While the journey to ownership is thrilling, it also comes with responsibilities. One crucial step that often gets overlooked in the excitement is the final inspection before settlement.

The final inspection, sometimes called the "pre-settlement inspection" or "pre-handover inspection," is an opportunity for buyers to review the property in the condition agreed upon in the contract. This inspection is not a casual walk-through; it’s your chance to ensure your new home meets all expectations and obligations before the keys officially change hands. Here’s why this final check is essential and what to look out for to ensure a smooth transition into your new Queensland home.

Why a Final Inspection is Essential

  1. Verify Contractual Compliance

The final inspection allows buyers to verify that the property aligns with what was agreed upon in the sale contract. It's the time to ensure any repairs or inclusions promised by the seller are completed. For example, if the contract stated that the air conditioning unit would be repaired, or certain appliances would be included, this is your chance to confirm these items are in place and in working condition.

  1. Ensure No New Damage

After a long purchasing process, it’s natural to assume your new home is just as you last saw it during the initial inspections. However, life happens, and sometimes unexpected issues arise. Whether it's accidental damage during the seller's move-out, minor scuffs, or even major damage from a recent storm, the final inspection is your time to catch these issues and address them before you sign on the dotted line.

  1. Peace of Mind

Moving into a new home is already a stressful experience. The last thing you want is to be greeted by unpleasant surprises like broken fixtures, missing appliances, or pest issues. By conducting a final inspection, you gain peace of mind, knowing the property is move-in ready and that any potential issues are already accounted for and addressed.

What to Check During Your Final Inspection

To make the most of your inspection, it’s helpful to have a checklist. Below are essential areas to inspect carefully:

  • Plumbing: Turn on taps, check for leaks under sinks, and test the shower to ensure there is adequate water pressure.
  • Electrical: Test all lights, fans, and air-conditioning units. Ensure any appliances included in the contract, like the dishwasher, are there and operational.
  • Doors and Windows: Check that doors and windows open and close smoothly. Make sure all locks and handles are functional for safety and security.
  • Fixtures and Fittings: Verify that all light fixtures, curtains, blinds, and any other fittings specified in the contract are in place and undamaged.

What to Do if You Find Issues

In Queensland, if the final inspection reveals issues that need addressing, communicate these with your agent and conveyancer as soon as possible. They can help negotiate with the seller to resolve the problems before settlement or, in some cases, negotiate compensation.

A Smooth Transition to Your New Home

While it may be tempting to skip the final inspection, this essential step provides a valuable safeguard to protect your investment. By verifying that everything is as expected, you’ll enjoy greater peace of mind and a smooth transition into your property.

Purchasing a property is a major financial and emotional commitment. By making the final inspection a priority, you’re setting yourself up for a successful, worry-free beginning in your new home.

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