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.
TL;DR
Handover walkthrough: the day the keys change hands. Walk the house with a torch, a level, and a notepad. Document everything.
Get the keys, the warranties, the manuals, the as-built plans, the BER, the Assigned Certifier's details, the BCAR file.
Don't sign practical completion until you're happy. The retention is held from this date.
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.
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.
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.