Most property settlements in Western Australia are now completed electronically. But in rare cases, a paper settlement is still required — and when it is, you need a licensed professional who understands the extra steps, risks, and compliance involved.
At RWS Settlements, we have the expertise to manage both digital and paper settlements, ensuring your property transfer is completed securely, accurately, and on time.
A paper settlement is the traditional, manual way of completing a property transaction. Instead of documents being processed electronically through PEXA, they are physically prepared, checked, and lodged with Landgate.
While more than 95% of WA settlements are now electronic, some property transactions fall outside the digital system. These matters require a paper settlement to ensure ownership changes hands legally and correctly.
You may need a paper settlement if your property transaction involves:
While rare, these scenarios do occur — and when they do, the process is far less automated than digital settlement. That’s why choosing an experienced settlement agent is crucial.
Because paper settlements involve more manual handling, there are higher risks than digital:
❌ Delays if documents are incomplete, incorrect, or rejected by Landgate.
❌ Errors in paperwork that may cause settlement to fall through.
❌ Missed deadlines, which could trigger penalties or even termination of the contract.
❌ More moving parts, including manual coordination with banks, councils, and government offices.
Working with RWS Settlements for your paper settlement means peace of mind:
If your transaction requires a paper settlement, RWS Settlements takes care of the entire process from start to finish:
We confirm whether a paper settlement is required and outline the process.
Every form and contract is drafted, checked, and double-checked to ensure accuracy.
We manage all communication to keep your settlement on track.
Documents are lodged manually at Landgate to complete the transaction.
You’ll receive clear communication at every stage so there are no surprises.
With our background in law, accounting, and compliance, you can be confident your paper settlement will be handled with precision.
While most transactions are electronic, certain titles, deceased estates, and related-party transfers still fall outside the PEXA system. These require manual, paper-based settlement.
Paper settlements can take longer due to manual preparation and lodgement. Our role is to minimise delays and keep the process on track.
Errors, delays, or missed deadlines are more likely without professional help. Using a licensed settlement agent significantly reduces these risks.
In some cases, yes. If the property becomes eligible for electronic lodgement, we may recommend switching to speed up the process.
While most WA settlements are now digital, paper settlements still exist — and they require extra care and expertise.
At RWS Settlements, we handle paper settlements with the same precision and reliability we apply to every transaction. You’ll enjoy clear guidance, fixed fees, and peace of mind knowing your property settlement is in safe hands.
