Our Property Inspection Checklist for Real Estate Investors During Handover

Buying an off-plan property can be an exciting investment opportunity, but the handover phase—when the property is officially completed and turned over to you—requires close attention. Developers may overlook small but crucial details, and addressing these issues during the inspection can save you time, money, and future headaches. This comprehensive checklist ensures you’re thoroughly prepared to evaluate your new property.

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1. Documentation and Handover Process

Before inspecting the physical aspects of the property, ensure all documentation is in order.

• Review Contracts: Cross-check the delivered property against the developer’s promises and agreed specifications. This includes materials, appliances, and finishing standards.
• Obtain Floor Plans and Utility Diagrams: Keep a copy of the floor plan and utility layout for reference during inspections.
• Verify Warranties: Ensure warranties for structural elements, appliances, and other components are documented.
• Check Service Connections: Confirm that water, electricity, and gas connections are active and functional.

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2. Structural Integrity

Walls and Ceilings:

• Look for cracks, uneven surfaces, or paint imperfections.
• Test soundproofing between rooms and neighbouring units.

Floors:

• Check for level surfaces and inspect tiles or flooring for chips, cracks, or misalignment.
• Ensure grout lines are even and sealed properly.

Doors and Windows:

• Confirm that doors and windows open and close smoothly.
• Inspect for gaps, misalignment, and damage to frames.
• Test locks and handles for functionality.

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3. Plumbing and Fixtures

Faucets:

• Turn on all taps to ensure water flows consistently.
• Check for leaks or low water pressure.

Drains:

• Test drainage in sinks, showers, and tubs for clogs or slow water flow.

Pipes:

• Check under sinks for exposed pipes or signs of leakage.

Toilets:

• Flush each toilet to confirm no issues (proper water flow and refilling.)

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4. Electrical Systems

Light Fixtures:

• Test all installed lights to ensure they’re working.
• Check for flickering or improper wiring.

Power Outlets:

• Use a tester to verify all outlets are live and correctly wired
• Ensure outlets are placed as per the approved layout.

Switches and Electric Panel:

• Inspect the main electrical panel for proper labelling
• Test all switches for responsiveness.

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5. Air Conditioning

Be sure your property’s ventilation and cooling systems are functioning as expected.

• Make sure air conditioning cools properly
• If the AC is not on when you visit the property, give it 24 hours and check for leaks
• Ensure AC vents are clean

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6. Kitchen and Appliances

Cabinets and Drawers:

• Open and close cabinets and drawers to be sure they are properly attached

Countertops:

• Check for scratches, chips or uneven surfaces
• Make sure material used is water-proof and doesn't get eroded

Appliances:

• Test built-in appliances e.g. oven, refrigerators, extractor fan, stovetops

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7. Exterior Spaces (If Applicable)

Balconies and Terraces:

• Check railings are stable
• Make sure door locks work properly (avoid getting stuck outside)

Gardens and Landscaping:

• Verify landscaping matches your contract
• Check irrigation systems for leaks or blockages
• Make sure outdoor lighting functions properly

Parking Spaces:

• Verify parking spaces match your contract
• Check garage door opens and closes properly

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8. Furnished Properties

Furniture Condition:

• Confirm furniture has no scratches, stains or loose joints
• Ensure upholstery is clean and intact

Artwork and Decor:

• Ensure decorative elements are well mounted
• Confirm there is no damage to these elements

Extras:

• Make sure any additional features e.g. coffee machines, smart home systems function well

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9. Final Steps and Follow-Up

After completing your inspection, address any issues with the developer immediately.

• Create a Snag List: Document all issues, including photos and detailed notes.
• Submit to Developer: Provide your snag list to the developer and confirm timelines for fixes.
• Reinspect: Schedule a follow-up to ensure all issues are resolved before final acceptance.

A Thorough Handover Inspection Matters

Handover is the time to make sure your investment meets promised standards. Taking these inspections seriously is worth the headaches it will likely spare later on. Hopefully you find our checklist useful and it helps you approach your property handover with the right details in mind.

A downloadable pdf is available at the beginning of this article.

If you have any questions, we're just a phone call or email away.