Handover

In plain words

Handover is the moment when the developer or seller actually hands a completed property over to the buyer. It involves an inspection, recording of defects, signing the handover certificate and handing over the keys. It is not a formality but a turning point in the deal.

Much changes once the certificate is signed. The risks of accidental loss of and damage to the property pass to the buyer, and the running costs begin: utility bills, service charges for common areas, insurance. Warranty periods also start to run, where provided for by the contract and the law of the country.

That is why the inspection before signing is the main moment of this stage. It checks whether what has been built matches the design and the contract, the actual area, the quality of finish and the working of the building services. All defects found are recorded in writing before signing: once the certificate has been signed without reservations, getting them put right is considerably harder.

When you will face handover

What is checked at handover

How handover works

1. 01Notice of completion
2. 02Inspection with defects recorded
3. 03Remedying defects
4. 04Signing the certificate
5. 05Handing over the keys and documents

What you need to know

• After the certificate the running costs pass to you
• Defects are recorded in writing before signing
• The actual area may differ from the design area
• Warranty periods usually start from handover
• Handover does not replace registration of title in the register

Common mistakes

• ✕Signing the certificate without an inspection for the sake of speed
• ✕Inspecting the property in a hurry and in the dark
• ✕Recording defects verbally rather than in writing
• ✕Not checking the actual area against the contract
• ✕Attending the handover without a specialist

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