What Happens After Settlement? Your Checklist

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What Happens After Settlement? Your Checklist

Settlement marks a significant milestone in the property journey, but it is not the end of the process. For buyers and sellers in Western Australia, several necessary steps take place after settlement to finalise ownership, update records, and ensure a smooth transition.

Understanding what happens after property settlement in WA helps avoid confusion, delays, and overlooked responsibilities. This checklist outlines the key actions buyers and sellers should take after settlement.

What Settlement Means in WA

In Western Australia, settlement occurs when legal ownership of the property is transferred from the seller to the buyer, funds are exchanged, and documents are lodged with Landgate. Settlement is typically completed electronically through PEXA.

Once settlement has occurred:

The buyer becomes the legal owner
The seller receives the sale proceeds.
Registration with Landgate is initiated.

However, several post-settlement tasks still need attention.

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After Settlement Checklist for Buyers

1. Confirm Registration of Ownership

After settlement, documents are lodged electronically with Landgate for registration. While this often occurs quickly, formal registration may take some time to finalise.

Buyers should:

Confirm registration has been completed
Retain copies of settlement documentation for records.

Your settlement agent will typically notify you once registration is confirmed.

2. Collect Keys and Access Devices

In most cases, keys are released once settlement has been confirmed. This may include:

House keys
Garage remotes
Security codes or access fobs

Buyers should ensure they receive all relevant access items.

3. Arrange Utilities and Services

After property settlement, WA buyers must ensure utilities are connected in their name.

This may include:

Electricity and gas
Water
Internet and telecommunications
Council services

Early arrangement helps avoid service interruptions.

4. Update Insurance Coverage

Building insurance is usually required from the settlement or earlier, depending on contract terms. After settlement:

Confirm your policy is active
Update details if necessary

This protects your property from unexpected events.

5. Conduct a Final Property Check

Once you have access, inspect the property to ensure:

It is in the agreed condition
Included fixtures and fittings remain
No unexpected damage has occurred.

Report any concerns to your settlement agent promptly.

After Settlement Checklist for Sellers

1. Confirm Receipt of Sale Proceeds

After settlement, sale funds are disbursed electronically. Sellers should:

Confirm receipt of funds
Check final settlement statements for accuracy.

2. Cancel or Transfer Services

Sellers should arrange cancellation or transfer of:

Utilities
Council rates accounts
Insurance policies

This helps prevent ongoing charges after ownership has transferred.

3. Retain Settlement Records

Keep copies of:

Settlement statements
Contracts of sale
Correspondence

These records may be required for taxation or future reference.

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Role of Settlement Agents After Settlement

Settlement agents continue to play an essential role after settlement by:

Confirming registration with Landgate
Providing final documentation
Assisting with any post-settlement queries
Liaising with government bodies if issues arise

Professional support ensures the transaction is fully completed and compliant.

Common Post-Settlement Questions

Registration timeframes can vary depending on Landgate processing. Electronic lodgement has significantly reduced delays, but buyers should allow some time for confirmation. For more on the full settlement process, see How Long Does Settlement Take in WA?

If an issue is identified after settlement, contact your settlement agent immediately. Early action can help resolve matters efficiently.

Understanding what happens after property settlement in WA is just as important as the steps leading up to settlement. From confirming registration to arranging utilities and retaining records, these post-settlement actions ensure a smooth transition for both buyers and sellers.

By working with an experienced settlement agent and following a clear post-settlement checklist, property transactions in Western Australia can conclude with confidence and peace of mind.

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