Essential Final Inspection Checklist for Home Buyers in Western Australia
In Western Australia, every home buyer is entitled to a final inspection of the property they have purchased before settlement.
It is increasingly common for buyers to purchase properties sight unseen. In such cases, the final inspection may be the only opportunity to ask questions about the property before taking ownership.
Final inspections can occur up to a week before settlement. It is advisable to allow at least five days for the vendor or agent to make any necessary changes.
A final inspection differs from a pre-purchase inspection in Perth, and the BCI WA team will not accompany you during this review. Below is a checklist prepared by our team to help you complete the final inspection with your agent. Our goal is for you to feel confident and ready to start a new chapter in your home on moving day.
Is the Building Secure?
- First, check the window and door are in working condition and keys are available to secure the property.
Is the Building Safe?
- Confirm that the vendor has addressed any structural concerns highlighted in the pre-purchase inspection or the timber and pest inspection, such as issues with pests, borers, rodents, or termites.
How is the Building Connected?
- Ensure that everything is functioning properly and that you know the location of utility components such as the electrical switchboard. Familiarise yourself with the water and gas metres and learn how to turn them off and on in an emergency.
Is the Building Clean?
- Verify that the vendor has removed all their rubbish and left the garden in the same condition as when your offer was accepted.
Is the Building Complete?
- Ensure that all negotiated items, such as white goods, wall hangings, furniture, pool equipment, etc., are present if they were part of the sale agreement.
Concluding the Final Inspection
- Note any questions or concerns during the final inspection. This is the time to ensure you are entirely satisfied with the property. However, it is not the time to negotiate new items not previously discussed.
Here’s a general checklist to ensure you have peace of mind on your final inspection.
(please ensure you read your offer of acceptance carefully, as contracts vary, and parts of this checklist may not be covered):
Keys and Locks
- Letter box key (only if locked)
- Door locks: only need to be unlocked – no key required if open
- Window locks: Must be able to open
Electrical and Lighting
- Turn the air conditioner / heater on as you arrive to ensure it cools / heats
- Door bell
- Light fixtures: Lights need to turn on
- Exhaust fans
- Ceiling fans
- Smoke detectors
- Dimmers on lights, sky lights, automatic blinds
- Electrical switchboard – 2 RCD’s
- Alarm codes and how to use it, where it is activated
Water and Plumbing
- Water taps and mixers (check outside for hose taps as well)
- Tap spouts
- Water filtration system works
- Leaks under laundry trough
- Washing machine taps
- Sinks (check that don’t leak)
- Toilets (check that flush)
- Hot water service
Appliances
- Stove / cook top / oven
- Dishwasher – working and explained
- Air conditioner
- Evaporative cooler
- Heating unit
Additional Items
- Pool pump and light
- Spa – heating unit and pump / filter
- Garage door: check that it in working order and with remote (only if in contract)
- Gas metre
- Solar power operation unit
- any items that may have been governed as part of the sale including display furniture.
You may not have spent much time at your new property, so take your time and enjoy getting to know its details.
If you would like a PDF version of this checklist. Please contact us through the “contact us” page of our website or call us directly on 08 9474 5720.