When It Applies

Not For

• Eviction advice, cancelling a lease, changing locks, withholding services, or removing a tenant without tailored legal advice and the correct process.

Documents

• Offer to purchase
• Sale agreement
• Lease agreement
• Rental statement
• Deposit proof
• Inspection reports
• Tenant notices
• Conveyancer correspondence
• Body-corporate rules
• Photos
• Question list

Timeline

• Before signing: identify occupation status and lease risk.
• Before transfer: collect sale, transfer, lease, payment, and condition records.
• During consultation: confirm controlling documents, deposit, handover, and process risks.
• Afterwards: calendar transfer, occupation, rent, and inspection dates.

Tips

• Do not treat vacant occupation as certain unless it is properly documented.
• Keep lease and sale documents in separate sections.
• Ask who holds the deposit and what happens at transfer.
• Record inspection facts with dates and photos.

Warning Signs

• Vacant occupation is promised but a tenant is still in place.
• There are arrears, deposit disputes, missing lease records, or tribunal complaints.
• Access or inspection is refused.
• Someone suggests changing locks, cutting services, or forcing a move without proper process.