Windows and Balcony Doors: What to Check at Handover

Windows and Balcony Doors: Handover Checklist 🏡

Whether you buy to live or invest, windows and balcony doors affect comfort, energy bills, and safety. This guide explains what to inspect during handover and how to record any problems.

Why inspect windows and doors?

• Air or water leaks increase heating costs and risk damp.
• Poor installation shortens hardware life and creates operational issues.
• Defects reduce sound insulation and can compromise balcony safety.

Quick preparation before inspection ✅

• Take a small kit: level, tape measure, flashlight, cloth, basic tool set.
• Ask for documents: installation certificate, warranty, product specs.
• Use a checklist to avoid missing details (there's a short one below).

Step-by-step inspection list 🔎

1. External condition

• Frames free of cracks, scratches, or excess foam.
• Sealant joints even and continuous.
• Window sills and drip edges sloped correctly for water runoff.

2. Glass units

• Glass intact: no chips or internal cracks.
• Fogging between panes signals seal failure.
• For energy glass, ask about the coating and performance claims.

3. Seals and weatherstripping

• Seals should be flexible, not brittle or cracked.
• Check for drafts by feeling around joints or using airflow from a fan.

4. Hardware and operation

• Test all opening modes (turn, tilt) — smooth motion required.
• Hinges and handles without excessive play.
• Locks and latches must engage securely without force.

5. Levels and gaps

• Use a level or visual check — sashes should not rub or drag.
• Gaps must be even around the frame with no large light gaps.

6. Drainage and ventilation

• Balcony door threshold must divert water and have proper insulation.
• Drain outlets in frames should be open and debris-free.

Simple on-site tests 🧪

• Water test: a small amount of water on the outer sill to check drainage.
• Light test: inspect joints against the light for visible gaps.
• Operation test: open/close several times and note any sticking.

Typical defects and how to describe them

• Seal failure — "fogging between glass panes".
• Draft at bottom — "uneven sash compression on lower seal".
• Misalignment — "frame tilt or sash skew visible".
• Sticking handle — "handle jams when switching to tilt mode".

Always photograph defects from both close-up and wider angles and mark the exact location (e.g., "lower left hinge of balcony door").

How to record and demand fixes

• Create an inspection report with a clear list of issues and photos attached.
• Specify preferred remedy: repair, replacement, or financial compensation.
• Agree on deadlines for fix and include them in the handover act.

Tips for buyers and investors 💡

• Request product documentation and installation warranty.
• For new developments, agree minimum acceptance criteria with the developer.
• For rental properties, prioritize windows with good sound and thermal insulation to increase tenant appeal.

Short on-site checklist

• Frame and finishing condition
• Glass unit integrity
• Seal compression and uniform gaps
• Hardware function and smooth operation
• Drainage and balcony threshold
• No visible leaks or drafts

If you need help with on-site inspection or documentation, our team can inspect and advise. Contact BuyHome to check the property thoroughly: https://buyhome.ge/en/search

Get in touch — we’ll help you choose and check a property carefully.