Due Diligence Checklist

Properties in regional and rural areas can provide space, peace and a unique lifestyle. They may also come with responsibilities such as bushfire overlays, septic tanks, water tanks or reliance on unsealed roads. Councils may provide limited services such as waste collection, so it is essential to check what applies to the property.

Does this property experience flooding or bushfire?

Properties are sometimes subject to the risk of fire and flooding due to their location. You should properly investigate these risks and consider their implications for land management, buildings and insurance premiums.

Buying in a growth corridor may offer strong investment potential, with new schools, shopping centres and transport planned. At the same time, large-scale construction can bring years of noise, dust and congestion. Review council planning maps and infrastructure projects so you understand how the area will develop in the future.

Some properties may be affected by past industrial use, farming chemicals or landfill, which can leave soil or groundwater contamination. This can impact building works, health and future property value. A vendor must disclose known issues, but it is wise to seek professional environmental testing before committing to a purchase.

Clarifying land boundaries avoids disputes. A licensed surveyor can confirm the exact position of fences, driveways and buildings, ensuring they fall within the property title. Unclear boundaries can lead to costly legal disputes, so confirm this information before settlement.

Every property is affected by zoning and overlays that determine what can be built, extended or removed. Planning controls may restrict subdivisions, demolitions, vegetation removal or changes to heritage-listed properties. Check the planning scheme with your local council to understand what is and is not permitted on the site.

All significant building works in Victoria must have a permit from a registered building surveyor. This ensures that the construction meets safety and structural standards. When buying, ask whether recent renovations, extensions or additions, such as pools or garages, have the correct permits. If they do not, you may be responsible for rectifying them.

Do you know your rights when buying a property?

The contract of sale and Section 32 statement contain important information about the property, so it’s important to request these documents and read them carefully. Many buyers engage a lawyer or conveyancer to help understand the contracts and ensure the sale proceeds correctly. If you plan to hire a professional, consider speaking with them before committing to the purchase.

There are also important rules around private sales and auctions, which may include a cooling-off period and specific rights for ‘off the plan’ purchases. The key thing to remember is that, as a buyer, you have rights.

Is the building safe to live in?

Building laws are in place to ensure building safety. Professional building inspections can help you assess the property for electrical safety, possible illegal building work, adequate pool or spa fencing, and the presence of asbestos, termites, or other potential hazards.

Does the property have working connections for water, sewerage, electricity, gas, telephone and internet?

Unconnected services may not be available, or may incur a fee to connect. You may also need to choose from a range of suppliers for these services. This may be particularly important in rural areas where some services are not available.