Queensland changed the rules for selling property on 1 August 2025. Under the Property Law Act 2023, sellers now have to give buyers a disclosure statement and a set of certificates before the buyer signs the contract. For buyers, that means more information up front, and a few new things to check.
What you should receive
Before you sign, the seller should give you:
- A seller disclosure statement (Form 2), covering things like the title, encumbrances, zoning, rates and any tenancy
- Prescribed certificates, such as the title search, the registered plan and, for units and townhouses, a body corporate certificate
If the seller doesn't give you these before you sign, or they're wrong about something material that you didn't know about, you may be able to end the contract and get your money back. Timing matters, so get advice quickly if something looks off.
The cooling-off period still applies
For most residential contracts you still have a cooling-off period of five business days. It starts when you, or your solicitor, receive the contract signed by both parties. If you end the contract in that time, you'll usually forfeit 0.25% of the purchase price. On a $750,000 home, that's $1,875.
There's no cooling-off period if you buy at auction, and you can be asked to waive it. Don't sign a waiver without advice.
Four things we check for buyers
- That the disclosure statement and certificates were given before you signed, and match the contract
- Anything unusual on the title, like easements or covenants that affect how you can use the land
- Your finance and building and pest conditions, and the dates they fall due
- Body corporate levies, special levies and any disputes, if you're buying a unit or townhouse
The best time to call us is before you sign
Send the contract through and we'll usually review it within one business day. See how we handle conveyancing.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Rules can change, so get advice about your own situation.