A Complete Guide to Fixtures and Fittings

The internet is brimming with debates around what constitutes a fitting or fixture, which can confuse those who are new to the property market. Whether building, buying, selling, or renting, having a sound understanding of fittings and fixtures is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a look at how you can easily distinguish between the two and the things you may want to consider while choosing the right fittings and fixtures for your home. Additionally, we’ll take a look at how these small details can make or break your property value and rental potential.

A fixture is simply defined as something that is ‘fixed’ to the spot through the use of any number of methods such as glue, nails, cement, etc. Essentially, a fixture is any object that is permanently affixed or built into the property and cannot be removed without the use of tools. Fixtures can be attached to any part of the property, both internally and externally.

Some notable examples of fixtures include:

Understanding what fixtures are is beneficial to communicating with property owners, builders, and purchasers and can help you easily navigate the intricacies of real estate.

Fittings, also known as chattels, are the opposite of fixtures and are essentially anything freestanding within a property. A popular way of understanding this is through visualisation. Imagine that your home is a dollhouse filled with all of your things; now flip it over, give it a shake and tip everything out! Whatever falls out of the dollhouse is generally considered a fitting.

Some examples of fittings include:

These items and many more can be classified as fittings; just remember the dollhouse method – when in doubt, flip it over and tip it out!

Fixtures are typically things ‘fixed’ to the property, and fittings are things typically ‘not fixed’ to the property. Simple right? However, sometimes with particular household items or appliances, it can be a little more challenging to distinguish between the two.

We’re here to help clear the confusion on some popular fixtures and fittings:

Dishwashers – Depending on the installation process, a dishwasher can be classed as either a fixture or a fitting. Factors that can impact this distinction include whether removal of the dishwasher will leave a gap or clear difference in tiling. If yes, then a dishwasher is considered a fixture; otherwise, it is a fitting.

Air Conditioning – Unless a portable unit, air conditioning is generally attached via nuts and bolts and connected to the property’s water system and is therefore considered a fixture.

Ovens – Similarly to dishwashers, ovens can class as either a fixture or a fitting depending on the installation process, with built-in ovens considered to be fixtures.

Whilst this may provide some clarity, the best possible distinction between fixtures and fittings is made in a contract for sale, ensuring that grey areas are adequately dispensed with.

Fittings and fixtures may seem like small details, but those details can be crucial when purchasing, selling or renting. Choosing the right ones for your home will improve the functionality, aesthetics and value of your property in a competitive housing market. Every situation is different, but we’ve outlined a few important things to consider below:

Building: If you’re building a home for your future, deliberating over your fittings and fixtures and how they fit your lifestyle and personal taste is the most important detail. Futureproofing your home with timeless and durable design will also reduce the need for repair and help if you or your family ever choose to sell the property.

Selling: Just as it’s essential to read over all documentation before purchasing a property, it’s crucial to outline the fittings and fixtures included to avoid any confusion. Fittings and fixtures can improve your selling price in many ways. For example, well picked and placed lighting can enhance the appearance of your home and the perceived size, pushing up the price. Additionally, showing servicing and maintenance records for any fixtures or fittings can improve valuation and give potential buyers more confidence in their purchase. Branded items can make a difference as well, purely based on the outward perception of those brands. Choosing well-known quality branded fixtures and fittings can increase the perceived value of your home.

Renting: Fixtures and fittings can also drive up your asking price on rentals, with simple things like modern showerheads, vanities and ample storage space attracting higher prices. However, it is worth noting that you may want to consider the longevity of your fittings and fixtures through frequent use versus the upfront price of purchasing and installing them. Choosing quality brands of fixtures and fittings can increase the perceived value of your home and, therefore, may allow you to ask for a higher weekly rental price from your tenant.

Buying: Unless stated otherwise, a property will generally come in the state it is sold, but some properties may be staged or stipulate the removal of certain items. When purchasing, carefully read over all contracts and documentation to clearly understand what your purchase includes.

Choosing your home fixtures and fittings gives you a fantastic sense of ownership in your custom-built home. Having a good idea of what fixtures and fittings you would like to include when building your new home is also beneficial in maintaining your budget and expectations. Our informative home design article also goes further into some pre-planning tips.

1. Finding inspiration can help you direct your design ideas and explore certain styles before committing. It will also help you communicate with your builder the type of things you’re looking for.
2. Setting your budget will give you a realistic idea of your options and soften the blow on expensive additions such as brass tapware, custom designer basins and luxury bathtubs. Your builder can work with you to balance your budget against your expectations and deliver an attractive solution.
3. Choose a colour scheme to tie together the overall look. There are thousands of options available, but you can simplify the overall selection process by reducing them down to a set colour scheme.
4. Focus attention on your bathroom and kitchen if you’re considering selling or renting, as these areas provide the most utility and practicality to prospective buyers or tenants.
5. Experiment with fittings, not fixtures, if you don’t intend this property to be your forever home. Fittings are easily removed, but bright or heavily stylised fixtures may not stand the test of time for prospective buyers. Have fun but remember to build to your intention.
6. Quality over quantity should be considered for anything regularly used, such as tapware, door handles and light switches. These things should gain priority over others, as fixtures that attract frequent use will sustain the most wear and tear and should be built to last.
7. Consider trends, both recent and timeless, when selecting fixtures and fittings. Whether a family home or investment property, a home should be built to be both beautiful and functional. Take some time to think about trending designs such as handless cabinetry and modernist tapware.

Now that you know the difference between fittings and fixtures, you can get to the fun part, picking them out! At Forme Homes, we give you maximum control over the look and feel of your dream home. This process includes working with our in-house design team and colour consultant, helping you flesh out all the details of what makes up your vision. We collaborate with you to choose the best fittings and fixtures for your home, whether you intend to sell, rent or live happily ever after.

Start your custom-build journey today by contacting our team at Forme Homes.