White Frame Handover: Checklist for Walls, Electrical, and Plumbing

White frame handover: clear checklist for buyers 🏠

Accepting an apartment in white frame condition is a crucial step before starting renovation. This is the moment to document the state of walls, electrical systems and plumbing so you don’t inherit hidden problems. The checklist below will help you inspect systematically and create a clear handover protocol.

Prepare for the inspection ✅

• Bring a flashlight, spirit level or straight edge, socket tester, small camera, notebook and gloves.
• Invite the developer's representative and, if possible, an independent electrician or plumber to join.
• Schedule inspection during daylight and with an empty apartment so nothing obstructs your checks.

1) Walls and ceilings — what to look for 🎯

• Surface quality: look for cracks, flaking plaster, uneven patches and moisture stains. Run your hand over the surface to feel hollows.
• Joints and corners: inspect junctions around windows, doors and ceiling corners for gaps and uneven seams.
• Preparation for finishing: note areas needing additional leveling or patching before painting or tiling.
• How to note defects in the handover form: describe the location precisely, attach photos and mark urgency.

2) Electrical system — safety first ⚡

• Visual check: boxes should be installed neatly, cables not exposed and joints properly insulated.
• Sockets and switches: test each socket and switch for power and secure mounting; check alignment and level.
• Distribution board: ensure access to the board, correct labeling of circuits, and that protective devices are installed properly.
• Earthing: verify presence of earthing connections and discuss the earthing scheme with an electrician if you plan heavy appliances.
• Basic tests to run: continuity of protective conductors, phase presence in sockets and functionality of lighting points.

3) Plumbing — the hidden network 🚿

• Visual inspection of pipes: check for visible leaks, quality of joints and signs of corrosion or poor assembly.
• Valves and shutoffs: ensure shutoff valves are present and operable; test by shutting and reopening to confirm no leaks.
• Drains and traps: pour water into sinks and shower trays to check flow, siphon integrity and absence of gurgling or backflow.
• Connection points: check prepared outlets for water heaters, boilers and towel rails for correct thread and alignment.

4) Final steps and documentation 📋

• Photograph all defects with clear captions and locations. Photos are your primary evidence.
• Prepare a handover protocol listing defects and proposed remedies, and agree deadlines with the developer representative.
• Discuss remedies: developer repair, compensation or third-party fix paid by developer.

Common issues and wording examples ✍️

• "Uneven plastering in living room, requires leveling and re-skim."
• "Missing circuit labeling in distribution board, incomplete wiring in kitchen area."
• "Moisture stains near window reveals, possible incomplete waterproofing."

Practical tips from BuyHome 🤝

• Take your time during inspection — a careful handover prevents future disputes.
• If the developer hesitates, insist on written confirmation of remediation timelines.
• Bring in an independent specialist when in doubt — their report strengthens your position.

Looking for properties or want to pre-check a listing? Explore our search tools: https://buyhome.ge/en/search

Need help with the handover or preparing your defect list? Contact BuyHome — we can assist with inspection and documentation.