Handover is the last moment the contractor is fully on site and the last payment is still unpaid. A thorough inspection now is worth far more than complaints later.
Room-by-Room Checklist
Structure and walls
- No cracks in beams, columns, slabs
- Wall cracks only hairline, at junctions, and noted
- No damp patches on walls or ceilings
- Walls plumb, corners square
Plumbing
- Every tap gives good flow and pressure
- No leaks at joints, under basins, at the WC
- Drains flow freely; no water standing in bathrooms
- Hot water works; geyser fixed securely
- Sump, overhead tank and pump working; float switch set
Electrical
- Every switch, socket and light works
- Distribution board labelled; MCBs and RCCB working
- Earthing done
- Fans balanced, fixed to hooks
Doors and windows
- Open, close and lock smoothly
- No gaps letting in light or rain
- Hardware complete
Floors and finishes
- Floors level; tiles not hollow (tap test)
- Grout complete; skirting fixed
- Paint even, no patches
Waterproofing
- Bathrooms pond-tested
- Terrace pond-tested; outlets clear
- Parapet coping and junctions sound
Documents to Collect
| Document | Why |
|---|---|
| Building permission and approved plans | Legal record |
| As-built drawings | Where pipes and conduits run in walls and slabs |
| Occupancy certificate (where required) | Utilities, loans, sale |
| Structural drawings | Future alterations |
| Warranties | Fittings, waterproofing, pumps |
| Material test reports and cube results | Quality record |
The Short Version
Walk every room with a checklist, test water, power and waterproofing, write a snag list, keep a retention until it is cleared, and take every document — especially as-built drawings — before the contractor leaves.
