Handover Walkthrough in Ireland — What to Check on the Day, the Keys, and the Trap
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Handover walkthrough: the day the keys change hands. Walk the house with a torch, a level, and a notepad. Document everything.
Handover walkthrough: the day the keys change hands. Walk the house with a torch, a level, and a notepad. Document everything. Get the keys (front, back, side, garage, garden gate), the warranties (appliances, heat pump, MVHR, structural warranty), the manuals, the as-built plans, the BER certificate, the Assigned Certifier's details, the BCAR file (Commencement Notice, inspection plan, Certificate of Compliance), the builder's contact details. Don't sign practical completion until you're happy. The retention is held from this date. The contractor walks the house with you, notes any issues, and agrees the snag list. Most first-time self-builders underestimate the importance of the handover walkthrough. It sets the tone for the defects liability period.
When this matters most
You're approaching practical completion and need to plan the handover.
When this doesn't apply
You've taken the keys.
Sources
RIAI, Form of Building Contract 2012. https://www.riai.ie/
Frequently asked questions
What should I check on handover day?
Keys (all of them), warranties, manuals, as-built plans, BER certificate, Assigned Certifier details, BCAR file, builder's contact details. Walk the house with a torch and a level. Document every issue.
What is practical completion?
The point at which the build is sufficiently complete for the client to take possession. The defects liability period starts. The retention is held from this date.
Can I refuse to sign practical completion?
Yes, if the build has major defects or unfinished work. The contractor must fix before you sign. Most disputes are resolved at the walkthrough. The RIAI contract defines practical completion.
When this matters most
You're approaching practical completion and need to plan the handover.
When this doesn't apply
You've taken the keys.
Where to go next
Next decision
The next step in your build sequence.
- Heat Pump Servicing in Ireland — Every 2 Years, €150–€300, and What the Service Includes →
- Retrofit Readiness in Ireland — Designing for the Year-15 Heat Pump or Solar Upgrade →
- Self-Build Year 1 Maintenance — Monthly Walks, Heating Tuning, and the Settlement →
- Septic Tank Pumping in Ireland — Every 2–3 Years, €150–€250, and the EPA Rules →
Branch into
Adjacent decisions at the same stage.
Watch out for
Common mistakes, hidden costs, gotchas.