Invecheck
Taking Handover of a New-Build or Off-Plan Property in Dubai: A Landlord's Snagging Guide
Caroline Hamren · · 4 min read
Receiving the keys to a newly completed property is a milestone, especially if you bought off-plan and have waited a long time for handover. For landlords planning to rent the property out, it is also a crucial moment: the condition of the home at handover sets the standard for everything that follows, from the first tenant's check-in to future maintenance.
New does not always mean perfect. Even well-built homes can have finishing defects, known as snags, that are much easier to get fixed before you move tenants in. Here is a practical guide to approaching handover and snagging.
What is snagging?
Snagging is the process of inspecting a new property for defects and unfinished work, then listing them so the developer can put them right. Snags range from cosmetic issues, such as paint marks, scratched glass or uneven grout, to functional problems, such as doors that do not close properly, poorly sealed wet areas, faulty sockets or air-conditioning that does not cool evenly.
Before handover day
- Read your sale and purchase agreement and any handover documents from the developer, paying attention to what is included, any warranties and how defects should be reported.
- Check what the developer's handover process looks like: many offer a pre-handover inspection appointment before the keys are released.
- Plan to inspect in daylight, with the power, water and air-conditioning connected so systems can be tested.
- Consider an independent inspection, so a professional can check the property on your behalf, especially if you are overseas.
What to check, room by room
- Walls, ceilings and paintwork: cracks, patchy paint, marks and damp patches.
- Floors and tiles: chips, cracks, hollow-sounding tiles, uneven grout and scratches on wooden or vinyl flooring.
- Doors and windows: smooth opening and closing, locks, seals, handles and glass condition.
- Kitchen: cabinet alignment, worktop finish, appliances working and included as specified, and no leaks under the sink.
- Bathrooms: water pressure, drainage, sealant around baths and showers, extractor fans and any signs of leaks.
- Electrics: every socket, switch and light fitting, plus the distribution board labelling.
- Air-conditioning: each unit cools properly, thermostats work and there is no dripping.
- Balconies and terraces: drainage, balustrades, tiles and sliding doors.
- Keys, access cards and parking: everything you were promised is handed over and working.
Record everything with dated photographs
For each snag, take a clear photograph and note the room and location. Dated photos and a written list give the developer exactly what they need to fix the issue, and they give you a record if you need to follow up. Keep copies of everything you submit and any responses you receive.
After handover: follow up and close out
Submit your snagging list through the developer's official channel and keep a reference for it. Once repairs are done, re-inspect to confirm each item has been resolved properly before signing anything to say the work is complete. Many developers offer a defects liability or warranty period; check the terms in your agreement so you know how long you have to report issues and what is covered.
From handover to your first tenant
Once the snags are resolved, you have a clean, defect-free starting point, and that is the perfect moment for a full check-in inventory before your first tenant moves in. A detailed inventory with dated photographs records the property in its best condition, protects your investment and gives your tenant a clear, fair record from day one. It also makes the eventual check-out far simpler.
If you are using an agent to find tenants, share the handover and inventory records with them too, so everyone works from the same picture of the property.
How Invecheck can help
Invecheck supports landlords at every stage: a handover inspection to document the condition of your new property and list snags, followed by a detailed check-in inventory when your tenant moves in. Book a handover inspection online, or contact us to plan the full journey from keys to tenancy.
