At Dylan & Inns, we regularly assist clients who are buying property on the Gold Coast and throughout Queensland. One of the most important aspects of the conveyancing process is conducting thorough property searches. These searches help identify any legal, financial, or physical issues that may affect the property and ultimately protect your investment.
Whether you’re buying your first home, an investment property, or a holiday home, it’s critical that you understand what property searches available and which ones are appropriate for your transaction. As experienced conveyancing lawyers, here’s what we typically recommend to our clients.
Title Search:
The title search is one of the first and most essential searches we carry out. This search confirms the legal ownership of the property and reveals any registered interests, such as mortgages, easements, covenants, or caveats. It ensures you are purchasing the property free from any undisclosed encumbrances.
Survey Plan Search:
The survey plan shows the legal boundaries of the property. It helps confirm that any fences, structures or improvements are built within the property’s legal boundaries and are not encroaching on neighbouring lots.
Council Searches:
Local council searches provide valuable information about the property and any outstanding obligations. Common council searches include:
Rates Search:
Confirms that council rates, water rates and other levies are paid up to date.
Building and Plumbing Search:
Checks that all structures and renovations have proper council approval.
Flood Search: Provides information on the property’s flood risk, which is particularly important on the Gold Coast and in other flood-prone areas.
Land Tax Search:
A land tax search confirms whether any unpaid land tax applies to the property. In Queensland, unpaid land tax can remain attached to the property after settlement if not addressed, so this search protects buyers from inheriting a seller’s tax debt.
Body Corporate Searches:
For properties within a body corporate, we recommend a comprehensive body corporate records search. This includes reviewing financial statements, meeting minutes, insurance records, and whether there are any outstanding levies or disputes that may affect your ownership.
Building and Pest Inspection:
While not a legal search, a building and pest inspection is strongly recommended. This independent report helps identify any structural issues or pest infestations that may require repairs or affect the property’s value.
Every property transaction in Queensland is different. At Dylan & Inns, we tailor our search recommendations based on the type of property you are purchasing, its location, and any specific concerns you may have. Conducting proper searches upfront gives you peace of mind and helps avoid costly surprises after settlement.
If you’re buying property on the Gold Coast or anywhere in Queensland, contact Dylan & Inns today. Our experienced property lawyers will guide you through every stage of the conveyancing process, ensuring your transaction is smooth, compliant, and fully protected.