Snagging and handover: a practical checklist

Before the visit

Ask for the as-built drawings, the appliance manuals, the warranty certificates and the list of paint and tile references. Bring a torch, a spirit level, a phone charger to test sockets, and a plug to fill sinks.

Envelope and external works

• Render free of cracks, especially above and below openings
• Veranda falls draining away from the building, no standing water
• Sliding doors run smoothly on their full travel and lock at every point
• Balustrades rigid, fixings sealed
• External lighting, sockets and tap points all working

Water, drainage and climate

• Fill and drain every sink, bath and shower; check flow rate and drainage speed
• Hot water reaching every outlet at temperature within a reasonable time
• No leaks under vanities or at appliance connections
• Every heating and cooling zone reaching setpoint, thermostats controlling the right room
• Extract ventilation working in bathrooms and kitchen

Electrical, joinery and finishes

• Every socket, switch and light circuit tested individually
• Consumer unit labelled, RCD trip tested
• Data, television and video entry points live
• Doors and wardrobes aligned, closing without binding, soft-close working
• Tiling flat and consistently grouted, silicone lines clean
• Paint finish even under raking light, no roller marks at junctions

Documentation to receive at handover

• Certificate of final approval
• Energy performance certificate
• Electrical and plumbing test certificates
• Appliance warranties and registration details
• Written defect liability period and a named contact for it
• Keys, access fobs and alarm codes, with a record of how many were issued