10 Overlooked Checks When Moving Into a House in Australia

Moving into a new house feels exciting. Fresh walls, new rooms, new memories. But many homeowners forget some simple checks that can save a lot of money and stress later. I’ve seen families in Sydney, Melbourne, and even smaller towns like Ballarat deal with surprise issues right after moving in. Some of these could have been avoided with a quick look before the furniture came in. These “House Moving Checks Australia” tips come straight from real stories I’ve heard and small mistakes that turn into big bills.

Did anyone check the roof?

One mate moved into a home in Brisbane during the summer. Two weeks later, heavy rain started dripping through the bedroom ceiling. The seller said, The roof was fine.” But no one looked at the flashing tiles. Always grab a ladder or call a roofer for a quick look. A cracked tile can turn into a flood.

How old is the hot water system?

Hot showers matter. A family in Perth moved into a house with a rusty old tank. First winter night, the system broke down. They had to wait three days for a new one. Hot water units last 8–12 years. Check the label and ask when it was last serviced.

Any signs of pests hiding?

Termites are sneaky. A couple in Adelaide found hollow skirting boards only a month after moving in. The inspector missed it. Shine a torch in roof spaces, cupboards, and under the house. “House Moving Checks Australia” isn’t only about leaks, it’s also about what’s eating your timber.

Are the smoke alarms working?

In Victoria, smoke alarms are a legal must. But many homes still have old ones without batteries. A cheap check could save lives. Press the test button. Replace if it doesn’t beep. Don’t trust that the last owner cared.

What about plumbing leaks?

A friend in Sydney turned on the shower and found water pressure so weak it felt like drizzle. Another time, water stains showed behind the laundry wall. Run every tap. Flush every toilet. Look for damp patches. Plumbing repairs can run into thousands.

Do the power points actually work?

One homeowner in Hobart plugged in the fridge only to find half the kitchen outlets dead. Dodgy wiring is common in older Aussie homes. Plug a phone charger into every outlet. Don’t just assume they all work.

How’s the drainage outside?

Big storms hit Queensland hard. A blocked drain in the backyard can flood a living room. Walk around after the rain. If you see puddles that don’t go away, you may need better drainage. That’s not a cheap fix, and better to know before planting a garden.

Is the insulation any good?

Houses in Canberra need strong insulation for winter. Without it, power bills skyrocket. Peek into the roof cavity. If insulation looks patchy or thin, budget for an upgrade. It’s one of those hidden costs people forget in their “House Moving Checks Australia.”

Are locks and windows safe?

A friend in Newcastle had every window latch broken. First week in, someone tried to slide one open at night. Safety comes first. Check every lock, latch, and key. Replace if dodgy. Security is part of moving peace of mind.

Did anyone test the appliances?

Built-in ovens, range hoods, aircon half of them don’t work in many older homes. One family in Geelong tried cooking dinner, and the oven door wouldn’t close. Test every switch, button, and fan before move-in day.

Why do these checks matter?

People often think moving into a house is just unpacking. But these little checks are the difference between feeling at home and calling tradies every week. I’ve heard too many stories from homeowners across Australia who skipped small steps, then ended up with big repair bills. Doing these “House Moving Checks Australia” first means less stress, safer living, and more money left for fun stuff, not fixes.

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FAQs

What adds the most value to a house in Australia?

Upgrading kitchens and bathrooms usually adds the most value. Energy-efficient features, extra living space, and neat landscaping also help. Even simple fixes like fresh paint or tidy gardens can make a noticeable difference.

What is the first thing you should bring into a new house?

Start with essentials like bedding, basic kitchen items, toiletries, and cleaning supplies. It’s also smart to check safety items like smoke alarms and locks before unpacking everything.

Does the seller have to clean the house in Australia?

Sellers aren’t legally required to do a deep clean, but most contracts expect the house to be reasonably clean. Always check your contract to see if cleaning is included before moving in.

Can I buy a house with $10,000 deposit in Australia?

It’s possible with some government schemes like the First Home Owner Grant or low-deposit lending programs. However, most lenders prefer a deposit of 5–20% of the house price.