Handover is the last practical chance to catch construction defects before they become your responsibility to fix. This room-by-room checklist covers what to test and photograph before signing the handover form — don't sign until everything on it has been checked.
Room-by-room checklist
Take dated, timestamped photos of every issue found, and don't sign the handover form until listed defects are documented in writing.
Walls, floors and ceilings
Check for cracks, uneven paint, tile alignment and level flooring in every room, not just the main living areas — bathrooms and kitchens are commonly rushed.
Plumbing fixtures
Run every tap and test water pressure, flush every toilet, and check under sinks for leaks. Test hot water specifically, not just that water runs.
Electrical fixtures
Test every switch and outlet, check the electrical panel is properly labeled, and confirm light fixtures included in the specification are actually installed and working.
Doors and windows
Open and close every door and window fully — misalignment often shows up as sticking, gaps, or difficulty locking, not just visibly crooked frames.
Specification match
Compare the delivered unit against the written specification sheet from your contract (area, finishing level, included fixtures) — see the documents-to-review guide for what that specification should have included from the start.
Common areas and shared systems
If accessible, check that shared systems relevant to your unit (elevators, building entrance, parking allocation if included) match what was promised, not just your unit's own interior.
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Frequently asked questions
What if I find defects during snagging u2014 can I refuse to sign the handover form?
Document every defect in writing and photograph it before signing; many contracts allow noting defects on the handover form itself with an agreed timeline for the developer to fix them. Check your specific contract's process, and consult a lawyer if the developer disputes documented issues.
How long after handover can I still report a defect?
This depends on the specific contract and any warranty period it defines u2014 confirm this explicitly rather than assuming a standard timeline, since it varies by developer.
Should I bring anyone with me to the handover inspection?
A second person helps catch things one person misses, and if you have access to an independent engineer or contractor for a more technical inspection, that's worth considering for a significant purchase.
Is a snagging checklist different from the earlier site-visit checklist?
Yes u2014 the site-visit checklist is about whether the project is progressing on schedule during construction; this one is about whether your specific delivered unit was actually finished correctly at handover. Both matter at different stages.
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