In Victoria, sellers are legally required to disclose any known building defects to potential buyers. As of December 2025, ‘urgent’ repairs – those posing immediate safety risks – require particular attention, and the timeframe for addressing them is influenced by the sale process.
Currently in Melbourne, there isn’t a strict legal deadline *before* a sale for completing all urgent repairs. However, failing to disclose known issues can lead to legal challenges post-sale. During the sales campaign, buyers will arrange building and pest inspections. In 2026, these inspections are increasingly thorough, and buyers in the Melbourne Eastern Suburbs – particularly in areas like Balwyn and Doncaster – are highly attuned to property condition. A report highlighting urgent repairs can significantly impact negotiation. Sellers often choose to address these issues proactively, factoring costs like $500 – $2,000+ for common repairs into their overall preparation budget. Alternatively, they may adjust their price expectation to reflect the work required. Fletchers’ experience shows that transparency and a clear understanding of the inspection process are key. We advise clients to obtain quotes for repairs identified during a pre-sale inspection, allowing buyers to assess the cost and impact. The settlement period (typically 30-60 days) doesn’t automatically allow time for repairs; these are generally the buyer’s responsibility post-settlement unless specifically negotiated.
Navigating disclosure and repairs requires careful consideration, and understanding the implications for your property’s value is crucial when selling in Melbourne’s competitive market.