Renovation Acceptance: Quality Checklist and Typical Defects

Why the renovation handover matters 🛠️

The handover is the moment when responsibility for the finished work transfers from the contractor to you. A proper check prevents hidden problems, ensures systems work, and saves time and money later. This guide gives a clear, room-by-room approach and practical tips for documenting defects and negotiating fixes.

Prepare for the inspection ✅

• Schedule the inspection in daylight — natural light reveals surface defects.
• Bring a smartphone for photos and videos, a flashlight, tape measure and a spirit level app.
• Have your contract, scope of work and any correspondence with the contractor on hand.
• Prepare a simple handover form: checklist, space for remarks, correction deadline and signatures.

General approach 🔎

• Do a visual sweep first: smell, humidity, obvious stains.
• Inspect top to bottom and from the entrance towards the windows: ceiling — walls — floor — windows and doors — electrical — plumbing — finishes.
• Photograph and record short videos of each defect with a voice note or caption. These records are invaluable if disagreements arise.

Room-by-room checklist 📝

Ceilings and walls

• Look for uneven areas, bubbles, cracks, or signs of moisture.
• Paint or plaster should be even without brush strokes or drips.
• Joints and seams must be properly finished.

Floors

• Floors should be flat without noticeable deflection.
• Coverings must be laid with consistent gaps near walls and doorways; skirting boards fixed.
• No unusual creaks when walking.

Windows and doors

• Frames must be level, open and close smoothly.
• Seals intact, insulating glass free from internal condensation.

Electrical

• Sockets and switches fixed and operational; no sparking.
• Test all lighting modes: ambient and task lights.
• Distribution panel labeled and protective devices functional.

Plumbing

• Fixtures should not leak; taps and showers must hold pressure.
• Drains must operate quietly and without backup.
• Under-sink areas should be dry and free of residue from leaks.

Joinery and custom furniture

• Joints and edges should be neat; units installed plumb and square.
• Doors and drawers operate smoothly without rubbing.

Typical defects and how to document them 📸

• Paint blisters near a window — photograph, note the room and the window side.
• Floor squeak in a hallway — record a short video showing location and movement.
• Leak stains under sink — photo and mention of moisture smell.

Be specific: location, brief description, and a suggested timeline for repair.

Writing the handover report 🖋️

• List each defect with concise descriptions and attach photos/videos.
• Specify the required remedy and a realistic deadline for completion.
• Get signatures from the contractor and yourself. If the contractor refuses, send the report by email with time-stamped attachments.

If the contractor refuses to fix issues

• Refer to the warranty and contract terms, and present your photo evidence.
• Propose an independent inspection if needed.
• As a last resort, seek legal advice, but many disputes settle once clear documentation exists.

Tips for buyers and investors 💡

• Request documentation of hidden work and equipment warranties from the seller or contractor.
• If unsure, hire an independent inspector or a construction engineer for the handover.

Final practical phrases for the report

• Example entry: Room 2 ceiling — visible cracks at panel joints, requires filling and sanding. Repair deadline — two weeks.
• Record everything — it protects your rights and saves future headaches.

If you are planning to buy a property or need help during handover, BuyHome specialists can assist with inspection and documentation. Browse available apartments and listings at https://buyhome.ge/en/search. Contact us — we will help you choose and accept property correctly.