Taking possession of a flat is a major milestone. Before accepting the handover from the developer, buyers should carefully verify both documentation and physical condition of the home to avoid issues later.

1. Legal and Documentation

Check that the possession letter is issued and all payment receipts are available. Verify approved floor plans, completion or occupancy certificate where applicable, and ensure there are no pending dues at the time of handover.

2. Flat Layout and Area

Confirm that the flat layout, room sizes, balconies, utility areas, and servant quarter if provided match the approved plans and agreement.

3. Civil Work and Finishing

Inspect walls, ceilings, and floors for cracks, dampness, uneven plaster, or unfinished paint. Tiles should be properly aligned and free from hollow sounds.

4. Flooring Slope and Drainage

Check the slope of flooring carefully, especially in bathrooms, kitchen, and balconies, to ensure proper water drainage and avoid water stagnation.

5. Doors and Windows

Ensure all doors and windows open and close smoothly. Frames should be sealed properly so that rainwater does not enter the flat during heavy rainfall.

6. Electrical Load and Power Backup

Confirm that the sanctioned power load meets the agreed requirement. Check whether DG power backup is provided for all electrical points as committed, including essential and common area loads.

7. Electrical Works

Test all switches, sockets, light points, and power outlets. Check proper earthing, functioning of the main distribution board, and safety devices.

8. Plumbing and Water Quality

Check water pressure, drainage flow, and look for leakages in bathrooms and kitchen. Verify water quality, including TDS levels, to ensure it is suitable for daily use.

9. Kitchen and Bathroom Fittings

Ensure sanitaryware, taps, kitchen platform, sink, exhaust, and other fittings are installed as promised and are in working condition.

10. Safety Features

Check fire safety systems, emergency exits, balcony railings, door locks, and overall safety provisions as per project specifications.

11. Common Areas and Utility Spaces

Inspect lifts, staircases, parking allocation, lighting, garbage disposal areas, and other common utility spaces to ensure they are functional and properly maintained.

12. Servant Quarter and Ancillary Spaces

If a servant quarter or additional utility space is provided, check finishing quality, ventilation, electrical points, and plumbing.

13. Amenities

Confirm that amenities mentioned in the agreement are ready or have a clearly defined possession timeline.

14. Snag List and Rectification

Prepare a written snag list of defects or pending work and share it with the developer. Confirm the rectification timeline before signing final possession documents.

15. Maintenance and Handover Details

Understand maintenance charges, corpus fund contribution, warranty details, and the handover process to the residents’ association.

A detailed handover inspection ensures peace of mind and protects the long-term value of the home. Buyers should take possession only after all agreed specifications are met.