Interior Handover Checklist for Pune Homes
The final day of an interior project can be exciting. The flat is cleaned, protective films are removed and the finished furniture finally looks like the design you imagined.
However, handover should not be treated as only a visual walkthrough. This is the stage when homeowners should systematically inspect the completed work, document defects and confirm what needs to be rectified before the project is formally closed.
Why a Snag List Matters
A snag is a defect, incomplete item or finishing issue identified during the handover inspection.
Examples include an incorrectly aligned wardrobe shutter, a drawer that does not close properly, an electrical point that does not work, paint marks, drainage issues or uneven finishing.
A written snag list is more useful than a general WhatsApp message because each defect can be assigned a number, photograph, responsible person and target date.
Inspect the Project in the Right Conditions
Lighting can hide many finishing defects. Whenever possible, conduct the main inspection during daylight with blinds open and decorative lighting switched off.
Also conduct an evening inspection because artificial lighting can reveal electrical and glare-related problems.
Power and water should be live during the inspection so electrical points and plumbing can be tested properly.
Carpentry and Hardware Checklist
- Open every wardrobe shutter.
- Check drawer movement and soft-close operation.
- Inspect shutter gaps.
- Check hinges and drawer channels.
- Inspect exposed laminate and edge banding.
- Confirm shelves and accessories against the approved specification.
- Check kitchen cabinets, especially areas below the counter.
False Ceiling Inspection
Look across the ceiling surface rather than only looking directly upward. A torch held flat against the surface can reveal uneven areas, board steps and joint shadows.
Check whether lights, grilles and other cut-outs are properly positioned and aligned.
Electrical Inspection
Test every electrical point under actual operating conditions. Turn switches on and confirm what each switch controls.
Check appliance points for the chimney, hob, oven, dishwasher, washing machine and geysers against the approved design.
Plumbing and Drainage
Run taps for a reasonable period and inspect the area below sinks while water is draining.
Test bathroom and balcony drainage by using water and observing whether it reaches the intended trap without leaving unwanted standing water.
Paint, Glass and Finishing
Inspect painted surfaces in daylight and from different angles. Look for visible patch marks, uneven sheen, roller marks or unfinished edges.
For glass and mirrors, check the edges, fixings, reflection and overall installation.
How to Create an Actionable Snag List
Each defect should have its own entry. Instead of writing “kitchen carpentry problems”, write a specific description such as “Kitchen drawer below hob does not self-close.”
Each item should ideally include:
- Snag number
- Room
- Trade
- Defect description
- Photograph
- Required action
- Responsible person
- Target completion date
Snag vs Warranty
A snag is normally an issue that exists and can be identified at handover. A warranty issue may develop later.
For example, an incorrectly aligned shutter is a handover snag. A future material failure or a waterproofing problem that develops later may fall under the project's post-handover coverage.
Documents to Collect at Handover
- As-built electrical and plumbing drawings
- Appliance invoices and warranty cards
- Paint shade codes
- Hardware details
- Care instructions for installed materials
- Service contact information
- Signed snag list
- Warranty documentation
Final Payment and Retention
If a retention amount has been agreed in the interior contract, it can be linked to closure of the agreed snag list. However, homeowners should not introduce a new retention at handover if it was never part of the original agreement.
Conclusion
Interior handover is a technical inspection, not simply a final look at the finished design. A systematic snag list, proper documentation and clear rectification process can help homeowners close the project with greater clarity.
