Final Property Inspection Checklist Before Settlement

If you're in the final stages of buying a home or investment property, you're likely gearing up for your final inspection, a crucial step before settlement takes place. This pre-settlement walkthrough is your chance to ensure the property is in the agreed condition, any promised repairs have been completed, and all inclusions are still present and accounted for. If you're working with a conveyancer in Werribee, like the team at Western Conveyancing, this process becomes a lot clearer and more reassuring.

Here’s a comprehensive final inspection checklist to guide you through it.

Why is the Final Inspection Important?

In short, it’s your last opportunity to flag issues before ownership changes hands.

Your contract gives you the right to inspect the property usually within the week leading up to settlement. This inspection protects your interests by allowing you to confirm:

• The property’s condition hasn’t changed since the contract was signed

• Agreed repairs or maintenance have been completed

• Fixtures, fittings and appliances listed in the contract are still present and working

• There’s no damage caused during the seller’s move out

If something doesn’t look right, your conveyancer can step in to negotiate a resolution before settlement is finalised. That’s where having a local expert in conveyancing in Werribee makes a difference.

What to Bring to Your Final Inspection

To get the most out of your final walkthrough, it pays to come prepared. Bring these essentials with you on the day:

• Your copy of the contract of sale and Section 32 statement: This helps you double check what was agreed to like inclusions, repairs, and conditions.

• Building and pest inspection report (if applicable): Use this to verify that any flagged issues have been addressed.

• A checklist of fixtures, fittings, and inclusions: Refer to this as you move from room to room, ensuring nothing has been removed or swapped.

• Phone: Document anything that looks off or requires follow up photos can be helpful for your conveyancer.

• Power bank or charger: You may need to run through appliances or check lighting, best to stay powered up.

• Torch: Handy for inspecting areas with low lighting or limited access, such as under sinks, in roof cavities or garages.

Your Melbourne conveyancer may also offer tailored tips or tools depending on the property type.

Final Inspection Checklist

Use this list to stay organised and thorough:

Your final inspection is more than a quick walk-through, it’s your opportunity to confirm the property meets the contract’s expectations and ensure there are no last-minute surprises. Follow this checklist to make sure you’re covering all the right bases.

1. General condition

• Overall property appears clean and tidy

• No new damage to walls, floors, windows, or ceilings

• No rubbish or belongings left behind by the seller

• All keys, remotes, and access codes provided or accounted for

2. Repairs and maintenance

• All agreed repairs (noted in the contract or negotiated later) have been completed

• Any building or pest issues have been resolved or explained

3. Fixtures, fittings, and appliances

• Light fittings, curtains/blinds, and built-in furniture are still in place

• Oven, stove, dishwasher, and other appliances work as expected

• Hot water, heating, and cooling systems are operational

• Taps and toilets are functioning and not leaking

4. Utilities

• Power and water are connected and working

• Test switches, lights, power points, and gas (if applicable)

5. Outdoor areas

• Garden, fences, pools, and sheds are in expected condition

• Exterior of the home hasn’t been damaged since the contract signing

• Rubbish, green waste, or chemicals haven’t been left behind

What if Something’s Not Right?

If you find an issue during your final inspection like damage, missing inclusions or uncompleted repairs, don’t panic. Contact your conveyancer in Werribee straight away. We help clients follow the correct legal process to raise concerns and negotiate outcomes.

Depending on the situation, this might involve a delayed settlement (if agreed by both parties), a written undertaking for the seller to fix the issue, a price adjustment, or even holding back funds at settlement until the issue is resolved. Our role is to protect your rights and help ensure your property purchase stays on track.

Expert Guidance Every Step of the Way

While the final inspection might feel like a formality, it’s a key part of your property journey. If something doesn’t look right, your conveyancer can step in to negotiate a resolution helping to avoid costly surprises or settlement delays.

At Western Conveyancing, we make the process clear and stress-free with:

• Expert advice from a local conveyancer in Werribee

• Personalised guidance across all types of conveyancing services in Melbourne

• Fixed, transparent pricing

• Direct communication with a small, dedicated team

• Support with electronic settlement (PEXA-certified)

Our experienced conveyancers help buyers navigate every step of the process with confidence. With over 30 years of combined experience in Melbourne conveyancing, we’re here to ensure nothing gets overlooked.

Need help preparing for your final inspection? Get in touch with Western Conveyancing to guide you through your final inspection and beyond, and receive a handy printable checklist to make the process even easier.