The Buyer's Checklist

Back to Before you buy

It's not possible to list everything you should check, but the following is a good start:

1. The dimensions of the land, including whether it is the same as what appears on the title.
2. The structure of the building, for example the foundations, plumbing, wiring, dampness, cracks in the walls.
3. Whether any part of the building overhangs an adjoining property.
4. The condition of the fences.
5. The gutters, eaves, roof, exposed pipes.
6. The tendency of the land to flood - ask the neighbours if the property is in a low-lying area, especially if it is located at or near the bottom of an incline.
7. If there is a vacant block of land next to or near the property, check with the council. For instance, you would probably want to know if a block of flats or apartments is to be built next door, or a huge house will be built that would allow the neighbour to look over your back yard.
8. Whether there are any zoning or building restrictions on the property.
9. Whether there are any easements. An easement is something that restricts the ability to use of the land, for instance whether there is a right of way across the property.
10. Whether there are any roads or freeways proposed to be built in the area.
11. Whether any renovations were completed without council approval. Wiring and plumbing must also have been legally connected.