Under Victorian law, urgent repairs are those that are essential to ensure a property is habitable and safe. These relate to things like a broken heating system in winter, a burst water pipe causing damage, or a dangerous electrical fault – issues that could cause immediate harm or make the property insecure.
When selling a property in Melbourne, as of December 2025, potential buyers (and building inspectors) will scrutinise the property for any signs of these urgent issues. While a seller isn’t legally obligated to fix *everything* before a sale, failing to disclose known urgent repairs can lead to complications post-sale. In the Eastern Suburbs, where family homes are in high demand, buyers are particularly focused on the functionality of key systems. Currently in Melbourne, a typical building inspection costs between $400 and $800, and will highlight any issues. It’s common for agents, like those at Fletchers, to advise vendors to address readily fixable urgent repairs – a plumber to fix a leaking tap, or an electrician to address a faulty socket – to avoid potentially lowering the sale price or extending the sales campaign. In 2026, we anticipate buyers will continue to favour well-maintained properties, even with renovation potential. Disclosing any known issues upfront, even if not legally required, builds trust and transparency.
Understanding what constitutes an urgent repair is crucial for a smooth property sale, ensuring both legal compliance and buyer confidence.