Essential checklist for Dubai property handover inspection. 25 items to check before accepting keys to ensure your property meets quality standards.
Dubai Property Handover: Complete Checklist of What to Inspect
TL;DR: Property handover inspection is crucial for identifying defects before accepting ownership. Key areas include structural integrity, MEP systems (mechanical, electrical, plumbing), finishes quality, and amenities functionality. Document all issues with photos, submit snag list within 30 days, and follow up until resolved.
The handover inspection is your last chance to identify issues before accepting property ownership. With thousands of units delivered annually, a thorough inspection can save you significant costs and headaches.
Pre-Handover Preparation
Documents to Bring
| Document | Purpose |
|---|
| SPA (Sale Agreement) | Verify specifications |
| Payment receipts | Confirm completion |
| ID documents | Identity verification |
| Power of Attorney | If representing someone |
Tools to Have
- Measuring tape: Verify sizes
- Phone/camera: Document issues
- Notepad: Record findings
- Level app: Check surfaces
- Flashlight: Inspect dark areas
Structural Inspection
Walls & Ceilings
| Check | What to Look For |
|---|
| Cracks | Hairline or structural |
| Paint quality | Even coverage, no marks |
| Alignment | Straight corners |
| Moisture | Water stains, mold |
Floors
| Check | What to Look For |
|---|
| Level | Even surface |
| Tiles | Cracks, chips, grout |
| Scratches | Wood floor damage |
| Gaps | Between tiles/planks |
Doors & Windows
| Check | What to Look For |
|---|
| Operation | Smooth open/close |
| Seals | Weather stripping |
| Locks | Security function |
| Glass | Scratches, cracks |
| Frames | Damage, alignment |
MEP Systems (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing)
Electrical
| Check | How to Test |
|---|
| Switches | All operate correctly |
| Sockets | Use phone charger to test |
| Lights | All fixtures working |
| AC controls | Test all functions |
| Circuit breaker | Know location |
Plumbing
| Check | What to Look For |
|---|
| Water pressure | Run all taps |
| Drainage | Time to drain |
| Leaks | Under sinks, toilets |
| Hot water | Heater function |
| Fixtures | Damage, operation |
Air Conditioning
| Check | What to Look For |
|---|
| Cooling | Reaches set temperature |
| Vents | Airflow from all |
| Noise | Unusual sounds |
| Remote | All functions work |
| Filter | Clean condition |
Kitchen Inspection
Appliances Checklist
| Item | Check |
|---|
| Cooktop | All burners ignite |
| Oven | Heats to temperature |
| Hood | Fan and light work |
| Dishwasher | Run full cycle |
| Refrigerator | Cools properly |
Cabinetry
| Check | What to Look For |
|---|
| Doors | Align and close properly |
| Drawers | Smooth operation |
| Hardware | Handles, hinges secure |
| Finish | No scratches, chips |
| Countertop | Level, sealed |
Bathroom Inspection
Fixtures Checklist
| Item | Check |
|---|
| Toilet | Flush, fill, seat |
| Sink | Drain, faucet |
| Shower | Pressure, temperature |
| Bath | Drain, fixtures |
| Exhaust fan | Operation |
Waterproofing
| Check | How to Verify |
|---|
| Grout | Complete, no gaps |
| Sealant | Around fixtures |
| Floor slope | Water drains |
| Wall tiles | Secure, no hollows |
Finishes Quality
Paint & Wall Coverings
| Issue | Severity |
|---|
| Minor marks | Low |
| Peeling paint | Medium |
| Different colors | Medium |
| Water stains | High |
Tile Work
| Issue | Severity |
|---|
| Minor grout issues | Low |
| Hollow tiles | Medium |
| Cracked tiles | High |
| Lippage (uneven) | Medium |
Snag List Creation
Documentation Format
| Category | Count | Priority |
|---|
| Critical | X | Immediate |
| High | X | 7 days |
| Medium | X | 30 days |
| Low | X | 90 days |
Photo Documentation
- Wide shot: Context of issue
- Close-up: Detail of defect
- Scale reference: Use finger/coin
- Date stamp: Prove timing
Submitting Your Snag List
Process Timeline
| Step | Timeline |
|---|
| Initial inspection | Handover day |
| Submit snag list | Within 7 days |
| Developer response | Within 30 days |
| Repairs completed | 30-90 days |
| Re-inspection | Before sign-off |
Key Points
- Submit in writing: Email with photos
- Keep copies: All correspondence
- Set deadlines: Request repair dates
- Follow up: Weekly until resolved
Accepting Handover
Before Signing
Documents to Receive
| Document | Purpose |
|---|
| Title deed | Proof of ownership |
| Keys/access cards | Property access |
| Manuals | Appliance guides |
| Warranty certificates | Coverage details |
| Service charge info | Ongoing costs |
Key Takeaways
- Inspect thoroughly: Every room, every system
- Document everything: Photos, notes, dates
- Submit snag list promptly: Within 7 days
- Follow up regularly: Until all resolved
- Don't sign off prematurely: Issues may be costly to fix later
A comprehensive handover inspection protects your investment and ensures you receive the quality you paid for.
Related AiGentsRealty resources
What to verify before you act
Before acting on any legal, rental, visa, mortgage, or transaction process, confirm the latest rule with the relevant authority or a qualified adviser. Dubai procedures can change, and individual circumstances matter. Keep written records, compare total costs rather than headline prices, and avoid relying on verbal promises when a contract, permit, title deed, or payment obligation is involved.
Sources and further reading
Process and risk checklist
For legal, rental, mortgage, visa, and transaction topics, verify the current rule with the relevant authority or a qualified adviser before acting. Dubai procedures can change, and your nationality, financing method, property type, contract status, and ownership structure can affect the correct process. Keep written documentation, confirm all fees before transfer, and avoid relying on verbal promises when a permit, title deed, tenancy contract, or payment obligation is involved.
The safest approach is to compare the official requirement, the contract wording, and the practical timeline. If those three do not match, pause and clarify before paying a deposit or signing. Good process discipline protects buyers, sellers, landlords, and tenants from avoidable disputes.
