Start with what was agreed when you bought the property. Walk through it, record discrepancies and read the complete handover record before signing. The aim is a clear account of the condition at handover and the issues still needing attention.
Before you meet
Gather the purchase contract, sales particulars, condition report and written agreements about repairs or included items. Make a short list of points to check. It is easier to remember promised work when you have the agreement in front of you than when you are being handed the keys.
Check how the handover record will be completed and how you will receive a copy. If the meeting needs to move, contact the seller and estate agent and have any agreed change confirmed in writing. Do not assume a message from one party changes the contractual date.
Walk through in a consistent order
Start in one room and work through the property. Look for visible damage, signs of leakage and work that should have been completed. Check that agreed items are present. Record the keys and access cards received and relevant meter readings. Ask for the instructions and records that are meant to accompany the property.
Photograph both the location and the detail. A close-up without a room reference may be difficult to understand later. Keep the original files and a simple list connecting each photograph to its subject.
If you find a problem
Describe what you see, where it is and what the parties say about follow-up. Separate an observation from an explanation of its cause. Write “dark patch on the ceiling above the window” instead of deciding where water came from before this has been investigated.
For new homes, Forbrukerrådet highlights recording defects in the handover document. For used homes, it recommends prompt written notification to the seller about a possible defect. The handover record does not necessarily replace a later complaint. If withholding money or refusing handover is being considered, get advice on the specific circumstances before deciding.
Before signing
Read the wording of every open item. Does it say what was observed, what is agreed and who will follow up? Do not leave a general statement that everything is satisfactory unchallenged if specific matters remain unresolved.
Save the record, attachments and photographs together. Then make a short follow-up list with a description, recipient and agreed next step for each item. Read more about the document itself in the handover record guide.
What to check
- Bring the agreement and a list of work that should be finished.
- Walk through the rooms and photograph visible damage.
- Record meter readings, keys and access cards.
- Read the handover record, include unresolved questions and keep a copy.