Buyers do occasionally contract to buy a different lot than the one inspected. A unit numbered on its door may be a different lot on the strata plan, and in a large subdivision of similar blocks the lot inspected can be hard to identify without a distinguishing feature on the plan.
Confirming identity means reading the plan, any survey and the contract against each other, and checking that the title and lot description match the property, its boundaries and its improvements. Without a survey, which is the usual position, reliance falls on the plan and observation of boundary fences, and a survey should be obtained if doubt arises about boundaries, encroachments or where improvements sit.
Where the property is part of a proposed subdivision, the contract may carry many provisions about registration, and checks are needed on allowable changes to the size and location of the lot, the provision of services and restrictions such as building envelopes.
CMK Legal's property and conveyancing team can help with this.
Door numbers and lot numbers do not always match, so the title and plan are what count. Encroachments and boundary doubts are best resolved by a survey before settlement, not after.
Law referenced: Transfer of Land Act 1958; Subdivision Act 1988; contract and plan of subdivision.