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What is the difference between fixtures and fittings?

What is the Difference between Fixtures and Fittings?
Fixtures are generally items which are attached, or 'fixed,' to the property, while fittings are items which aren't attached to the property, other than by a nail or a screw (such as a picture or mirror, for example).
It's generally assumed that fixtures will be included in a property sale, unless otherwise stated, while fittings will not be included unless the seller expressly agrees to leave them behind.


Fixtures and Fittings - Working out Which is Which

A good way of working out whether something is classed as a fixture or a fitting is to imagine tipping the house upside down and seeing what falls out!


Basically everything that would fall out can be classed as a fitting. Most of what's left can be classed as fixtures.
Fixtures would include anything that is securely fixed to the house, such as a fitted kitchen, internal doors, integrated appliances, fitted carpets or the bathroom suite. It would also include the air condition system, including any radiators.


Disputes over the removal of fixtures and fittings are common and frequently cost more to resolve than the value of the disputed items. Such disputes can cause delays in registration.
The buyer should get the property in the manner in which they viewed/inspected the property – along with having all the device's, equipment, remotes and/or fittings that allow for fixtures to work.


The buyer is further protected by the Consumer Protection Act in this regard.
It is always best practice to write in the Sales Agreement any and all Fixtures or Fittings that one would like to stay and/or will be removed, or be replacing.

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