If you have bought or sold your homes before, you would have heard of these couple of terms – Fixtures and Fittings. This is something which you may have likely wondered or checked about during the process.
If you have not started your home journey yet, no worries! This article will allow you to differentiate between the two and explain why it matters.
Fixtures
Kitchen Sink
These are items that are attached / fixed to the property. They are usually not removed when the house is sold.
Example:
Built-in Wardrobe
Electric sockets
Kitchen cabinets and sinks
Bathroom shower and sinks
Toilet bowls
Light fixtures
Plumbing pipes
Chandelier
Water Heater
Air-conditioner
Fittings
Carpet
Items that are not attached to the property. Typically, free-standing items that can be easily removed and not fixed to the property. Sellers will usually remove them when house is sold.
Example:
Refrigerators
Bed
Cupboards
Sofa
Lamps
Dining Table
Carpet
Television
Paintings
Why Differentiate?
Very simply, so that as a buyer: you know what remains there after you purchase the property.
And for a seller: you know what you can take away with you to your new home and what should be left behind.
However, we understand there are times there can be disputes between buyer and seller on what constitutes as a fixture or fitting.
Sometimes not clearly defined..
It happens. There are times where a particular item is deemed differently on both sides. For instance, a beautiful chandelier in the middle of the living room. Or, that plant in the garden.
To prevent such disputes from happening (we all don’t like such things to turn ugly!), it is advisable to prepare an inventory list. This is a separate form the accompanies the sale / purchase. Basically, it lists down the items that will be included in the sale.
By listing down the items included the sale and getting both buyer and seller to sign on the form – you remove all dispute possibilities. For example, in the HDB OTP form, there is a page that lets you fill in movable items to be included in the sale.
Also, have the conversation early before agreeing to go ahead with the sale or purchase. As such, both sides will be able to agree on the items before proceeding.
It is also possible to see a certain fitting before purchasing and ask the seller if the item can be included in the sale. If it is an expensive item, you can also negotiate to include it in the sale price.
Conclusion
Disputes commonly happen and it is always good to agree on both side before any transaction take place. Formalise the agreement and you will be good to go!
Happy house-hunting or house-selling!
More questions? Reach out to us here!
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