One Signature You Might Regret

Handover day always feels like a celebration. After months of waiting, the keys are finally in your hands. But this euphoria often causes buyers to overlook critical issues that could be claimed as free repairs from the developer — as long as the handover report hasn't been signed yet.

Once you sign, the status changes. Any defects found afterward generally fall on the owner, not the developer. That's why the inspection before signing is the single most valuable moment in your entire homebuying journey.

What to Bring

Don't show up empty-handed. Bring:

  • Camera or smartphone with good photo mode
  • Tape measure (at least 5 meters)
  • Small screwdriver (to test electrical outlets)
  • Flashlight or torch
  • Small bottle of water (to test drainage flow)
  • Sticky notes or colored tape to mark defects
  • Copy of the developer's floor plan and specifications

Come during daylight for maximum natural light. Allow at least 3 hours for a 45–60 sqm home, more for larger units.

Part 1: Structure and Exterior

1. Check all walls for cracks — hairline cracks are common, but cracks wider than 2mm or diagonal cracks near door/window frames can indicate structural issues worth flagging.

2. Check floor levelness — roll a marble or use a spirit level. Uneven floors affect drainage, door fitting, and furniture stability.

3. Inspect the roof and ceiling — look for water stains, sagging areas, or mold patches indicating leaks. Rain before handover day helps reveal these.

4. Verify boundary walls and fence — check that they match the site plan and that no neighboring structure encroaches.

5. Check exterior drainage — pour water along the yard to verify it drains toward the street, not into the house foundation.

Part 2: Doors and Windows

6. Open and close every door — it should move smoothly without sticking, gaps, or misalignment. Check that all locks and deadbolts work correctly.

7. Test every window — it should open, close, and latch properly. Check for gaps that let in rain or noise.

8. Check frame finishes — look for dents, scratches, exposed rust on metal frames, or incomplete paint on wooden frames.

9. Verify security grilles are properly installed — shake them to check anchoring. They should not rattle or loosen.

Part 3: Electrical System

10. Test every electrical outlet — bring a small charger or use a screwdriver to check that outlets are live. Note any that don't work.

11. Test all light switches — confirm each switch controls the correct light.

12. Check the MCB panel — all breakers should be labeled. Ask the developer to demonstrate switching each circuit on and off.

13. Verify TV aerial and data point locations — confirm these match what was promised in the specifications.

Part 4: Plumbing and Water

14. Turn on every faucet and shower — check water pressure and verify it flows clean without discoloration.

15. Flush every toilet — listen for unusual sounds. Check that the tank refills properly and there's no continuous running.

16. Test all floor drains — pour water and confirm it drains without pooling.

17. Check under sinks for leaks — run the tap for a full minute and look under the sink for dripping.

18. Confirm water heater is installed and working — if promised in specifications.

Part 5: Finishes and Fixtures

19. Check all tile and ceramic work — hollow-sounding tiles haven't bonded properly and may crack under use. Tap tiles lightly — a hollow sound means re-grouting or relaying is needed.

20. Inspect grout lines and caulking — they should be clean, consistent, and free of mold.

21. Check paint quality — look for drips, thin patches, uneven coverage, or areas where underlying surface shows through.

22. Test all built-in cabinets and drawers — hinges should be tight, drawers should slide smoothly, and alignment should be consistent.

23. Verify ceiling height matches specifications — bring your tape measure and check.

Part 6: Utilities and Documentation

24. Confirm electricity meter is installed and active — get the meter number in writing.

25. Confirm water connection is live — ask for the PDAM customer number.

26. Get the IMB/PBG — the building permit must be handed over to you. Do not accept a copy alone — insist on the original or a certified copy.

27. Get the as-built drawing — the actual construction drawing, not just the sales brochure floor plan.

28. Check the warranty terms in writing — what's covered, for how long, and how to submit a claim.

Part 7: Final Steps

29. Photograph every defect with context — take wide shots showing the location within the room, then close-ups. Date-stamped photos are your strongest claim documentation.

30. Submit a written defect list before signing — hand the developer a written list of all items found and request written confirmation that they will be repaired before or shortly after handover. Only then sign the handover report.

If the Developer Pushes Back

You have every right to note defects before signing. A professional developer will have a standard defect liability period — typically 100 days for structural defects and shorter for finishing. If a developer resists your inspection or pressures you to sign before you're ready, that pressure itself is a red flag worth noting before committing.