What are Chattels in a Contract of Sale of Land – and What Does the Vendor Need to Deliver at Settlement?

When you’re buying or selling property, the term “chattels” comes up a lot—and it’s more important than most people realise. Chattels are the movable items that aren’t fixed to the property, and knowing what stays and what goes at settlement can save you from some major headaches (and awkward surprises). This post breaks down what chattels are, what a vendor is expected to deliver at settlement, and how to avoid disputes about “what comes with the house.”

 

What are Chattels in a Contract of Sale of Land – and What Does the Vendor Need to Deliver at Settlement?

 

So—you’ve found the house, signed the contract, and you’re counting down to moving day. But wait… is that fancy new dishwasher actually yours? What about the outdoor clothesline or those sheer curtains you loved during the inspection?

 

This is where chattels come in—and knowing what they are can save you from a settlement day headache.

 

What are chattels, exactly?

 

Chattels are the moveable items included in the sale of a property. Think things like:

• Washing machines
• Microwaves
• Freestanding wardrobes
• Curtains and blinds (depending on how they’re attached)
• Light fittings (if not built in)

 

They’re different from fixtures, which are items that are attached to the land or property—like built-in ovens or kitchen cabinets. Fixtures usually stay. Chattels only stay if they’re listed in the contract.

 

Why do they matter?

 

When a buyer walks through a home, they often assume what they see is what they get. But unless the chattels are clearly included in the contract of sale, the vendor has no obligation to leave them behind.

 

That’s where confusion—and sometimes conflict—can creep in.

 

What does the vendor have to deliver at settlement?

 

The vendor needs to make sure that:

• All the chattels listed in the contract are still there at settlement
• They’re in the same condition they were in when the contract was signed (reasonable wear and tear is okay)
• Nothing extra has been removed that should have stayed (like light fittings swapped for cheap ones)

 

If anything is missing or broken, the buyer might be entitled to a price adjustment—or even refuse to settle until it’s sorted.

 

Common mistakes to avoid

 

• Buyers: Don’t assume that everything you saw at the open home comes with the house. Ask for anything important to be added to the contract.

 

• Vendors: Don’t remove items that are listed as inclusions, even if you “changed your mind.” If it’s in the contract, it stays.

 

• Both parties: Get clear advice before signing. It helps to avoid last-minute surprises that delay settlement.

 

Understanding chattels in your contract helps keep things clear and stress-free. Whether you’re buying or selling, knowing what stays and what goes can save time, money, and unnecessary drama.

 

Need help with a property contract or confused about chattels? We’re here at HazeLegal to guide you through every step—no jargon, just practical advice.

 

 

 

DISCLAIMER

 

This commentary is published by HazeLegal for general information only—it’s not legal advice. If you have questions or need advice for your specific situation, we recommend speaking to a lawyer or reaching out to us at http://hazelegal.com.au before making any decisions.

 

HazeLegal works closely with our sister company, WebWills, to bring you these resources.

 

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