When buying a house, you need to know exactly which fixtures and fittings are included in the sale. You may take for granted that certain items are included in the sale, but its a good idea to make sure, and to specify the details in the Agreement of Sale.
Anything that forms a permanent part of the property is deemed to be a fixture and is therefore included in the sale. This includes doors (and their keys), windows, built-in cupboards, wall-to-wall carpets and bar/kitchen counters (and the stools that go with them), as well as plants and shrubs in the garden. The seller may not remove them when he leaves, unless it is clearly stipulated in the Agreement that he will do so.
Light fittings are considered fixtures, but a seller may wish to take with him a chandelier that he bought for the house. However, he needs to specify this in the Agreement, exclude it from the sale, and he ought to replace it with another light fitting, though this can be negotiated.
Where it is not entirely clear whether a particular item is a permanent fixture or not, it is important to state clearly in the Agreement whether or not it is included in the sale. This will avoid misunderstanding between the parties involved. And remember, though you can legally demand the return of a removed fixture, it can be difficult and costly to do so.
Please note: We have compiled this information in good faith, but we accept no liability for any errors, or for any use that is made of it, or for any problems or damage that may arise as a result of using or acting upon this information.
