Caveat Emptor
phraseca·ve·at emp·torpronounced KAV-ee-at EMP-tor
Last reviewed 16 April 2026
What does the phrase Caveat Emptor mean?
A Latin phrase meaning 'let the buyer beware.' In Australian property law, it places the responsibility on the buyer to investigate the physical condition of a property before purchase. Sellers generally have no obligation to disclose physical defects, though they must not actively conceal them or make misleading statements.
How the phrase Caveat Emptor is used
In most states, caveat emptor applies — so we organised a building inspection to uncover any defects the seller wasn't required to disclose.
Synonyms
let the buyer beware, buyer beware
Related words
Cite this entry
MLA citation: "Caveat Emptor." How to Property, 16 Apr. 2026, https://howtoproperty.com.au/definitions/caveat-emptor. Accessed 30 May 2026.
Chicago citation: How to Property. "Caveat Emptor." Last modified April 16, 2026. https://howtoproperty.com.au/definitions/caveat-emptor.
APA citation: How to Property. (2026, April 16). Caveat Emptor. https://howtoproperty.com.au/definitions/caveat-emptor