Before You Sign: Key Property Checks to Make in NSW

Signing a contract of sale is a major step in any property transaction. In NSW, key property documents are usually prepared or reviewed as part of the conveyancing process, helping buyers understand the legal, planning and property details attached to the land.

These documents can reveal important details about ownership, boundaries, planning controls and restrictions that may affect how the property can be used, developed or sold in the future.
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1. Confirm the Property Title

A title search confirms the legal ownership of the property and identifies any registered interests attached to the land. This may include mortgages, caveats, easements, covenants or other restrictions.

Checking the title helps ensure the property details are correct and highlights any legal factors that may affect the transaction or future use of the property.

2. Review the Deposited Plan or Strata Plan

A deposited plan shows the property’s boundaries, lot details and relationship to surrounding land. This is especially important for understanding the size, shape and legal boundaries of the property.

For apartments, townhouses or units, a strata plan may also be required. This can show the individual lot, common property and areas shared with other owners.

3. Check the Planning Certificate

A Section 10.7 Planning Certificate provides information about the planning controls that apply to the property. This may include zoning, land use rules, heritage considerations, flood controls or other council requirements.

This is particularly important if a buyer plans to renovate, extend or redevelop the property in the future.

4. Look for Easements, Covenants and Restrictions

Some properties have legal restrictions that affect how the land can be used. Easements may allow access for drainage, services or neighbouring properties. Covenants may limit what can be built or changed on the site.

Understanding these details before signing can help avoid unexpected limitations later.

5. Check the Property Details Match

Before a contract is finalised, it is important to confirm that the property details align across the contract and supporting documents.This includes the address, lot and deposited plan number, strata plan number, title details and any required certificates.

For those preparing or reviewing the contract, even small inconsistencies can create delays, raise additional questions or require clarification before the transaction can progress.

Fynd It Before You Sign

Accurate property documents play an important role in the contract review process. By reviewing title, planning and property information early, buyers, conveyancers and property professionals can move forward with greater confidence.

Fynd helps provide access to key property searches in one place, making it easier to gather and review the details before contracts are signed.