Possession Handover Checklist
A systematic inspection of the unit at possession to document defects, shortfalls against specifications, and missing amenities before signing the possession letter.
What is a Possession Handover Checklist?
A possession handover checklist is a structured inspection document used by a buyer to evaluate the unit at the time of possession — before signing the possession letter. Its purpose is to identify and formally document all defects, specification deviations, incomplete works, and missing amenities so they can be addressed before you accept the property. Signing the possession letter without a documented snag list can weaken your ability to get post-possession remediation.
20-Point Possession Checklist
- Carpet area: Measure all rooms with a laser measure and compare against RERA-disclosed area. Report shortfalls above 2%.
- Flooring: Check tile/marble specification matches the sale agreement. Look for chips, lippage (height mismatch between tiles), and grout completeness.
- Walls and ceiling: Check for cracks, seepage stains, uneven plastering, paint uniformity. Check corners and beam junctions.
- Plumbing: Run all taps for 5 minutes, flush all toilets, check drainage speed. Inspect under-sink areas for wet spots or leaks.
- Electrical: Test every switch and socket with a socket tester. Verify MCB panel has labels matching rooms. Check earthing with a tester.
- Windows and doors: Open and close every door and window. Check frame alignment, gap at corners, locking mechanism, weather-strip seal.
- Kitchen fittings: If modular kitchen is included, check all cabinet doors and drawer slides. Verify countertop material matches specifications.
- Bathroom fixtures: Verify brand and model of CP fittings (taps, shower, flush valve) match specification. Check tiles in wet areas for seal completeness.
- Balcony and terrace: Check drainage slope (water should not pool), waterproofing completeness, railing stability.
- Car parking: Verify specific parking slot number is marked and accessible as per allotment letter.
- OC copy: Builder must provide a certified copy of the Occupancy Certificate. If not available, do not sign possession letter.
- Fire NOC: Verify fire safety equipment (extinguishers, sprinklers, hydrant points) is installed in common areas.
- Amenity access: Verify clubhouse, gym, pool, and other amenities are functional or have a specific commissioning date in writing.
- Society formation status: Confirm Resident Welfare Association or Apartment Owners Association is being formed and builder is not retaining management indefinitely.
- Maintenance deposit receipt: Get a formal receipt for maintenance advance and corpus fund paid.
- Utility connections: Confirm electricity meter number is in your name, water connection is sanctioned, gas pipeline connection status if applicable.
- Lift certificate: Verify lifts have a valid certificate from the Electrical Inspectorate or equivalent state authority.
- External facade: Check external walls of your floor for water seepage marks or construction debris stuck to the building exterior.
- Common areas: Walk through lobby, staircase, and terrace. Note incomplete painting, lighting gaps, or security infrastructure missing.
- Structural defect liability: Collect builder statement or refer to your sale agreement confirming the 5-year structural defect liability under RERA Section 14(3) — builder must rectify structural defects reported within 5 years of possession.
Snag List Process
Document every issue found with photographs and a written description. Submit the snag list to the builder in writing (email is preferred for evidence). The builder must acknowledge and provide a remediation timeline. Do not sign the possession letter until either all critical snags are resolved or the builder provides a written commitment with specific dates and financial consequence clauses for non-completion.
How Brickplot Uses This
Brickplot publishes project-specific possession experiences collected from verified buyers. Common snags across a project indicate builder quality patterns. Our platform displays the average snag resolution time for each builder based on buyer-reported data, helping future buyers set realistic expectations.
Related Terms
- Possession Certificate — the document you sign after completing the checklist
- Carpet Area Verification — item 1 on the handover checklist
- Occupancy Certificate — must be in hand before possession — item 11 on the checklist
Related terms
Brickplot verifies possession handover checklist disclosures on every reviewed project as part of the independent 11-axis score. No builder commissions. No editorial override.