This content applies to Scotland only.

Housing laws vary between Scotland and England. Get advice relating to England

This page looks at problems that could occur once you have moved into your new home.

Read the page on moving home for tips on organising your move.

What if the heating or utility supplies aren't working?

As soon as you move into the property, check that everything is working properly. You might consider calling in a Gas Safe Register engineer to check any gas fittings. You could also ask a plumber and electrician to check the plumbing and wiring.

If you discover anything wrong, get in touch with your solicitor at once. The missives should specify an amount of time during which the seller is still responsible for anything that isn't working (fair wear and tear excepted). This is usually five working days. Your solicitor will arrange for the seller to pay to put it right.

What if fixtures and fittings are missing?

Check that all the fixtures and fittings you wanted are still there. If they're not, check with your solicitor that they were part of the sale and then ask them to get in touch with the seller's solicitor.

What if the property is left in a bad state?

There's no law that says a seller has to leave a property clean and tidy. However, they do have to remove all their belongings. If they have left things behind that you don't want, you should ask them to come and pick them up. If they don't, you can arrange to have them removed yourself. If this is expensive but the seller refuses to pay you, you may be able to take them to the small claims court, although it may not be worth it. Your solicitor will be able to advise you on what to do in this situation.