By Talk to a Lawyer · Published 20 September 2026 · General preparation information
Property problems are easier to explain when you name the property, your role and the next decision. A buyer considering a contract, a tenant receiving a notice and an owner dealing with defective building work need different services. Start with the closest situation below, then use the individual guide to collect the right records. Property rules and processes vary by state and territory.
Three distinctions to make first
Decision 01
Before signing or after a problem?
For a purchase or lease, explain whether you have signed anything, paid a deposit or booked an auction. For a dispute, identify the notice, defect or disagreement and the result you want. Do not assume a provider handling routine transactions also conducts litigation.
Decision 02
Legal review or another specialist check?
Ask what the legal review covers and which building, pest, valuation, finance or planning checks require someone else. Keep the responsibilities visible. A review of contract terms does not establish the physical condition of a building.
Decision 03
Which documents belong together?
Keep the contract or lease with attachments, later variations and correspondence. For building or strata issues, separate the original arrangement from meeting records, photographs, invoices and notices. Mark missing material so the adviser can explain its significance.
Prepare for a useful appointment
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A preparation aid, not confirmation that a legal requirement is complete.
Compare the work, not just the price
Property advice is easier to compare when every quote uses the same property, documents and transaction stage. Identify signing, auction, settlement or response dates at the start. Ask which legal checks are included and which physical, planning, valuation or financial checks you must arrange separately. A low fixed fee is difficult to assess without the exclusions and the cost of changes.
- Before a commitment
- Confirm when the full documents can be reviewed, how advice is explained and what information must be obtained before you decide to proceed.
- During the matter
- Identify who tracks dates, requests searches, communicates with other parties and tells you about changes that require a new decision or additional work.
- If a problem emerges
- Ask whether the provider handles disputes or needs to refer you, what additional work costs and who manages any urgent obligation during that transition.
Understand legal fees and written quotes →
Leave with an agreed next step
Confirm who tracks the next date and who must authorise any change. Keep written advice with the version of the document it refers to. If a provider cannot assist in time, ask about other appropriate services promptly rather than assuming a booking protects your position.