Pre Settlement Inspection Checklist [2026]

As settlement day gets closer, it’s worth taking one final look through your new home for peace of mind.

A pre-settlement inspection isn’t about looking for new issues. It’s simply your chance to check that the home is in the same condition as it was when you signed the contract, so you can collect the keys with confidence.

Purpose of Final Property Inspection And Do You Need One?

In the days before settlement, it’s worth taking one last walk through your new home. This final inspection gives you peace of mind that everything is just as it should be before you collect the keys.

If the seller is still living in the property, this step is even more important. A lot can happen between signing the contract and settlement, and it’s a chance to make sure the home is still in the same condition.

Settlement periods can range from 14 to 120 days, although 30 to 60 days is the most common. If you’re unsure of your settlement date, your conveyancer can confirm it for you.

Keep in mind that this inspection isn’t about looking for new upgrades or asking for repairs to problems that were already there when you bought the home. Instead, you’re checking that nothing has changed since the contracts were signed.

If you do notice new damage, such as a cracked window, a hole in the wall, or a burst water pipe, you can ask the seller to repair it before settlement.

And don’t be surprised if the home isn’t completely empty during your inspection. If the seller is settling on another property on the same day, they may still be in the process of moving out. That’s perfectly normal.

When Should You Do The Pre-Settlement Inspection?

It’s best to do your pre-settlement inspection a few days before you receive the keys. This gives you enough time for any new problems to be fixed before settlement if needed.

The rules for pre-settlement inspections are slightly different in each state. In most cases, you’ll need to arrange the inspection at a reasonable time during the week before settlement. Your conveyancer can let you know what applies in your state.

Who Should Do The Inspection?

It’s usually best to do the inspection with the real estate agent. The seller may also be there, especially if they’re still living in the home.

Be sure to arrange a time that works for everyone. Don’t visit the property without letting the seller or agent know first.

What Should Be Checked During This Inspection

During your pre-settlement inspection, here are some of the most important things to check:

Lights And Electronics

Take a few moments to check that the lights in each room are working properly.

• If something isn’t working, make a note of it and ask the seller or your conveyancer about it.
• It’s also a good idea to test any fixtures that are included with the home, such as security cameras, built-in speakers, or the garage door opener.
• Keep in mind that personal items, including TVs and portable speakers, don’t stay with the property unless they were included in the contract.

Plumbing

• Turn on every tap to make sure the water is flowing properly, just as it was when you signed the contract.
• While the water is running, check that the sinks, showers, and drains empty away smoothly and aren’t blocked if they were working properly before.

Water Heaters

• Check that the hot water is working by turning on the hot taps and testing the showers. The water should heat up and flow normally.

Air Conditioners And Heaters

• Turn on each heater and air conditioner to make sure they’re working properly. If they use a remote control, check that it’s included and working too.

Door Handles And Locks

• Open and close every door to make sure it opens, closes, and latches properly.
• It’s also worth checking that all outside door locks are working if they were when you signed the contract.

Appliances

• Check that any appliances included with the home, such as the oven, cooktop, rangehood, and dishwasher, are working properly.
• Items like the fridge, microwave, toaster, and coffee machine usually belong to the seller and will be taken when they move out, unless they were included in the contract.

Curtains And Blinds

• Open and close the blinds and curtains to make sure they’re working properly, as they are included with the home.
• If they’ve become damaged or much dirtier than when you signed the contract, you can ask the seller to have them repaired or cleaned before settlement.

Windows And Glass

• Check that all the windows and glass are free from any new cracks or damage. It’s also a good idea to open, close, and lock any windows that have locks to make sure they’re working properly.

Flooring

• Check the carpets and floors for any new damage, such as stains, cracked tiles, or damaged floorboards that weren’t there when you signed the contract.
• The seller doesn’t have to professionally steam clean the carpets before settlement. However, the home should be left in a reasonably clean condition.

Pool And Spa Filters

• If the home has a pool, check that any pool equipment, such as the pump or filter, is working properly if it was when you signed the contract.

Check For Pests

• Look around for signs of pests, such as mouse droppings, chewed areas, or damage caused by possums or other animals.

Smoke Alarms

• Check that the home has the required smoke alarms and that they are working properly by pressing the test button.

Fixtures And Fittings

• Check that everything included in the contract is still there, such as light fittings, built-in wardrobes, blinds, and curtain rods. It’s also a good idea to make sure taps, door handles, and light switches are all working properly.

Signs of Damage or Neglect

• Make sure all rubbish has been removed from the home, including the shed, under the house, and inside cupboards and wardrobes.
• The home should be left clean, tidy, and in the same condition as when you signed the contract. Look for any new scratches, stains, mould, or damage that may have happened while the seller was moving out.

Exterior

Start your inspection by walking all the way around the outside of the home. Check for:

• Walls and structure: Look for any new cracks, leaning walls, or doors and windows that no longer open or close properly.
• Roof: You don’t need to climb onto the roof, but look from the ground for any missing roof tiles or other visible damage. Inside the home, check for any signs of leaks.
• Gutters and downpipes: Make sure they are clean and not blocked.
• Windows and doors: Check that they open, close, lock, and seal properly. Make sure you have the keys for any locks.
• Fences: Look for broken panels, gaps, or anything that could be unsafe.
• Outdoor fixtures: Test outside taps, sprinklers, lights, and any other outdoor fittings to make sure they’re working.
• Gardens and plants: If the contract says certain plants, trees, or landscaping will stay, check that they’re still there and in good condition.

Special Conditions

• If your conveyancer has negotiated any special conditions in the contract, make sure they have been completed before settlement.
• For example, the seller may have agreed to remove a shed, provide pest or soil inspection reports, end a tenancy agreement, or leave behind certain items that aren’t normally included with the home.
• If you’re unsure what special conditions apply to your purchase, ask your conveyancer before settlement.

What To Bring To A Pre-Settlement Inspection

You can do your inspection without bringing anything, but depending on your contract and the home you’re buying, it can be helpful to bring a few useful items with you, just in case.

Contract Of Sale

Bring a copy of your contract with you so you can check that everything the seller agreed to leave is still at the property, and that anything they agreed to take has been removed.

Camera

Bring your phone or a camera so you can take photos of anything that needs attention. These photos can be shared with the seller if any problems need to be fixed before settlement.

What If You Find Something Wrong?

If you find something that is broken or in worse condition than when you first looked at the home, tell your conveyancer straight away.

They can ask the seller to fix the problem before settlement. If it can’t be repaired in time, they may be able to negotiate a lower purchase price to help cover the cost of the repairs.

Breeze Through Your Pre-Settlement Inspection With Precision Property Buyers Agency

It’s important to stay calm and take your time during your pre-settlement inspection. If you find a problem, don’t panic. Let your conveyancer know as soon as possible so they can explain your options. While you’re probably excited to move into your new home, taking a little extra time now can help you avoid bigger problems later.

At Precision Property Buyers Agency, we’re here to guide you through the buying process. Whether you’re purchasing your first home or growing your investment portfolio, we can help you understand what to look for during your pre-settlement inspection and answer any questions you have along the way.

If you’re unsure about anything during your inspection, your Precision Property buyer’s agent can help you understand your next steps and work with your conveyancer to help the settlement process stay on track.

You can also download a PDF version of this checklist to take with you during your inspection.

FAQ

What If Issues Are Found In The Property Condition Report?

If you find any problems during your inspection, tell your conveyancer or solicitor as soon as possible. Depending on your contract, they may be able to ask the seller to fix the problem or provide compensation before settlement.

Small problems, like a dirty home or a missing fitting, can often be fixed quickly. Bigger problems, such as serious damage or repairs that haven’t been finished, may mean settlement needs to be delayed until everything has been sorted out.

How Long Does A Final Inspection Take?

Most pre-settlement inspections take between 45 minutes and 2 hours, depending on how big the home is and how much there is to check.

Is It Common To Find Problems During The Final Inspection?

Yes. Small problems, such as missing items or minor damage, are quite common and can usually be sorted out before settlement.