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Are Window Blinds Considered Fixtures In Real Estate?
Buying or selling a home is often both exciting and overwhelming, involving a mix of legal obligations, emotional decisions, and a mountain of paperwork. Among the many details that can confuse is what stays with the property after the sale. One common point of uncertainty is whether window blinds are considered fixtures in real estate transactions. Understanding whether your blinds are classified as fixtures or personal property is essential – especially when preparing to sell or finalise a purchase—so there are no surprises during settlement.
What Are Considered Fixtures?
Here’s a basic rule of thumb: a decoration or piece of equipment that’s attached to the home with glue, cement, nails, pipes or other similar materials is considered a fixture. This item then ‘conveys’ with the sale of the property.
Common examples of fixtures include:
- Doorknobs
- Tap-ware
- Toilets
- Basins/vanity units
- Wall-mounted benches.
Are Window Blinds Considered Fixtures?
If your blinds, shutters, or shades are affixed to the window frame, they are indeed considered fixtures. Unless there’s a specific agreement with the seller, these window treatments automatically convey with the home upon sale.
Are Curtains Considered Fixtures?
Curtains are one of those grey areas that you need to clarify with your real estate agent. Generally speaking, the rods, rails and pelmets are included as fixtures because they are attached to the home. The curtains themselves are not fixed so they may be considered the seller’s property and therefore removed.
What Window Treatments Should I Install in My Rental?
For a rental property investment, opt for simple, functional, and stylish window treatments. Our top recommendation is the traditional Roller Blinds. They are incredibly practical, trendy, and effortless to install and maintain. Roller Blinds offer a variety of fabrics and opacity levels, ensuring an ideal fit for every window in your home.
What Colour Blinds Are Best for Rental Properties?
For an ideal choice of blinds for your rental home, we recommend adhering to a neutral colour palette. Opting for shades of white, grey, and stone not only ensures widespread appeal but also seamlessly complements a variety of decor styles.
Final Thoughts: Clarify to Avoid Confusion
Buying or selling a home comes with many moving parts, and understanding what stays with the property is a critical part of that process. While window blinds are often considered fixtures—especially if they’re custom-fitted or permanently installed—it’s not always clear-cut. That’s why it’s important for both buyers and sellers to discuss and clearly outline inclusions like blinds in the contract of sale. By taking the time to clarify expectations early, you can avoid unnecessary disputes and ensure a smoother, more transparent property transaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are window blinds considered fixtures when selling a house?
In most cases, window blinds that are permanently affixed to the wall or window frame are considered fixtures and are included in the sale of the property. However, it’s always best to clarify this in the sales contract.
Can sellers legally take blinds with them when they move?
If the blinds are considered fixtures, they are generally expected to remain with the home unless otherwise agreed upon in writing between the buyer and seller.
What’s the difference between a fixture and a fitting?
Fixtures are items physically attached to the property, like blinds or built-in cabinetry. Fittings, on the other hand, are movable items, such as freestanding lamps or curtains hung on removable rods.
How can I ensure there are no disputes over blinds during sale?
Clearly listing included and excluded items in the sale contract is the best way to avoid confusion. If you plan to remove the blinds, notify the buyer and document the agreement.
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