Glossary · The buying process
Handover inspection
Also called: Snagging, Defect inspection
In short
The buyer's check of the finished unit before accepting it. Defects are listed in writing, repaired by the developer and checked again before transfer.
What it means
Before ownership is transferred, the developer invites the buyer to inspect the unit. The inspection is your chance to have defects repaired while the developer still wants your final payment.
How to do it
- Go through every room: walls, floors, ceilings, doors, windows, joinery.
- Test every tap, drain, socket, light, air-conditioning unit and appliance.
- Look for signs of water: stains, damp, poor falls on the balcony.
- Compare what is installed with the materials list in the contract.
- Write a dated list, have the developer sign for it, and inspect again after the repairs.
Professional inspectors do this for a fee, with instruments most buyers do not own.
After you move in
Defects that appear later are covered for the periods in the contract. Report them in writing as soon as you notice them, and keep a copy.