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Phase 7 of 8
Quality Checks & Handover
Ensure everything meets your standards. Learn what to check before making final payment.
Duration:1 week
The handover phase is your last chance to ensure everything meets standards before final payment. This critical stage requires thorough inspection, clear documentation, and firm resolution of any issues.
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Inspection Time
3-4 hours
For thorough check
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Typical Defects
20-30 items
Average per project
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Rectification
3-7 days
Standard timeline
1
The Comprehensive Handover Checklist
A systematic inspection ensures nothing is missed. Check every item methodically.
General Finishing
- All walls smooth, no visible patches or uneven areas
- Paint color consistent throughout, no streaks or drips
- Skirting properly aligned and secured
- No gaps between wall and ceiling
- All switch plates level and properly installed
Flooring
- No scratches, stains, or damage
- Consistent level throughout (no lips)
- Skirting no gaps against floor
- Transition strips properly installed
- No hollow sounds (especially tiles)
Doors & Windows
- All doors open/close smoothly without sticking
- Locks function properly and smoothly
- No gaps when doors are closed
- Door stoppers installed and functional
- Window locks secure and operational
Kitchen
- Cabinet doors aligned (no crooked doors)
- Drawers slide smoothly on tracks
- Countertop no chips, stains, or scratches
- Sink properly sealed with no gaps
- Hood and hob working correctly
- All accessories installed (handles, organizers)
Bathrooms
- Tiles no cracks, chips, or hollow spots
- Grout lines clean and consistent
- Floor gradient correct (water flows to drain)
- All fixtures securely mounted
- Water heater functioning properly
- Accessories installed (towel bars, hooks)
Electrical Systems
- All lights working with correct switches
- Power points tested with actual plug
- Switches labeled correctly if needed
- DB box properly organized and labeled
- No exposed wiring anywhere
Plumbing
- All taps functioning with good pressure
- No leaks anywhere (check under sinks)
- Water pressure adequate throughout
- Drains flow properly without gurgling
- Toilet flushes completely and refills properly
2
Documenting Defects Effectively
Proper documentation ensures all issues are addressed. Be thorough and specific.
The Defects Documentation Process
Step 1: Mark Physical Defects
- Use blue painter's tape to mark issues
- Number each defect sequentially
- Write number on tape with marker
Step 2: Photograph Everything
- Take wide shot showing location
- Take close-up showing defect detail
- Include measuring tape for scale if relevant
- Ensure good lighting for clarity
Step 3: Create Written List
- Number matches the physical marking
- Describe location precisely
- Describe defect specifically
- Indicate required rectification
Step 4: Share with Contractor
- Send via WhatsApp immediately
- Also email for formal record
- Request acknowledgment of receipt
- Set rectification timeline (usually 7 days)
Common Defects to Look For
- Paint: Drips, uneven coverage, wrong shade
- Carpentry: Gaps, misalignment, rough edges
- Tiles: Uneven spacing, lippage, hollow spots
- Electrical: Non-functioning points, wrong switch
- Doors: Don't close properly, gaps, scratches
- Surfaces: Scratches on new surfaces
- Fixtures: Loose mounting, missing parts
3
Final Payment Considerations
Final payment is your last leverage. Use it wisely to ensure satisfaction.
Before Final Payment Checklist
- All defects from list rectified satisfactorily
- Site thoroughly cleaned (including windows)
- All keys handed over (main door, bedroom, mailbox)
- Warranty documentation received
- As-built drawings provided (if applicable)
- All surplus materials returned or accounted for
Payment Best Practices
- Withhold 5-10% until all defects cleared
- Get written confirmation of warranty terms
- Ensure contractor contactable for warranty
- Pay by traceable method (not cash)
- Get official receipt for payment
Red Flags to Watch For
- Pressure to pay before defects fixed
- Refusal to provide warranty in writing
- Incomplete rectification claimed as "normal"
- Additional charges for defect rectification
- Contractor becoming uncontactable
4
Important Documents to Collect
These documents are crucial for warranty claims and future reference.
Essential Documents Checklist
- Warranty Cards: All items with warranty
- Instruction Manuals: Appliances and systems
- Electrical Certificate: If major electrical work done
- Waterproofing Warranty: Usually 5 years
- Carpentry Care Instructions: Maintenance guide
- Paint Color Codes: For future touch-ups
- Material Specifications: Tiles, flooring details
- Contractor Details: Contact for warranty claims
Digital Documentation
- Scan all physical documents
- Create cloud backup folder
- Organize by category
- Share with spouse/family
- Set calendar reminders for warranty expiry
Photo Documentation
- Final photos of each room
- Close-ups of special features
- Hidden areas (behind cabinets, etc.)
- Electrical/plumbing access points
- Before-after comparison shots
Final Handover Checklist
Room-by-Room Inspection
Remember These Key Points
- Never rush the handover - take 3-4 hours minimum
- Document every defect with photos and descriptions
- Withhold final payment until all issues resolved
- Get all warranties and documents before final payment
- Test everything - better to find issues now than later
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Rushing inspection due to excitement
- Not documenting defects properly
- Paying in full before defects cleared
- Not getting warranties in writing
- Accepting 'that's normal' for actual defects
Pro Tips
- Bring a friend who's renovated before for second opinion
- Inspect during daytime for best visibility
- Use phone flashlight to check dark corners
- Run water in all areas for 5 minutes to check drainage
- Take videos of all moving parts (doors, drawers) operating