All Topics / Help Needed! / Previous owner still in house after settlement

Viewing 8 posts - 1 through 8 (of 8 total)
  • Profile photo of OmondpOmondp
    Member
    @omondp
    Join Date: 2005
    Post Count: 1

    I had my settlement today and after collecting the keys from the agent I go around to my property to notice that the previous owner is still moving out. I then contacted the agent who was shocked, eventually we come to an agreement that they need to have their stuff out by the next day (day after settlement).

    I am now concerned that either they won’t have their stuff out of the house or they will leave the house in a mess. Since settlement is already happened what are my rights if they leave the place in a mess?

    Any advice on what I should do? Thanks,

    Profile photo of karen.karen.
    Member
    @karen.
    Join Date: 2009
    Post Count: 196

    wow.  isnt that trespassing?

    mattnz
    Participant
    @mattnz
    Join Date: 2007
    Post Count: 574

    Your contract says vacant possession?

    Profile photo of Scott No MatesScott No Mates
    Participant
    @scott-no-mates
    Join Date: 2005
    Post Count: 3,856

    Change the locks, tonight!!!1

    Profile photo of pedricopedrico
    Member
    @pedrico
    Join Date: 2009
    Post Count: 1

    You would have been entitled to one inspection just before settlement. How come you didn't notice the former owner then?

    Profile photo of flyinspiritflyinspirit
    Member
    @flyinspirit
    Join Date: 2009
    Post Count: 2

    the seller actually still has three days to move their stuff after the settlement day.

    and no much you can do about.

    I had same situation before in WA.

    Profile photo of TerrywTerryw
    Participant
    @terryw
    Join Date: 2001
    Post Count: 16,213

    Yes I think it is tresspassing if they are in your property without your permission. You should have done an inspection before settlement and refused to settle. It can be a pain to try to get them out if they refuse to move, so better try to keep on good terms.

    Terryw | Structuring Lawyers Pty Ltd / Loan Structuring Pty Ltd
    http://www.Structuring.com.au
    Email Me

    Lawyer, Mortgage Broker and Tax Advisor (Sydney based but advising Aust wide) http://www.Structuring.com.au

    Profile photo of crjcrj
    Participant
    @crj
    Join Date: 2004
    Post Count: 618

    WA practice may be different.  In NSW they should be completely out before settlement otherwise they are not in a position to give vacant possession and are unable to fulfil the contract.  As conveyancing is a state rather than commonwealth matter and each state has its own rules, if someone is after assistance it will be much more meaningful for them if they specify the state the property is in

Viewing 8 posts - 1 through 8 (of 8 total)

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