Preparing for a new-build handover in Ireland

A practical organiser for the handover appointment: what to ask, what to record and which documents to request. It is not a technical inspection or certification.

Before the appointment

• Confirm the appointment time, who will attend and how long is allowed.
• Ask how defects or incomplete items should be reported and tracked.
• Ask what certificates, manuals, warranties and other documents will be provided.
• Consider arranging an independent snagging inspection and confirm its scope and timing.
• Bring a phone or camera, notebook, charger and a copy of the house specification.

During the walk-through

• Open and close doors and windows; note visible damage or operation issues.
• Look at visible finishes on walls, ceilings, floors, stairs and joinery.
• Check kitchen units, worktops and supplied appliances against the agreed specification.
• Look at visible bathroom finishes, taps, shower fittings and sanitaryware.
• Ask for a demonstration of heating, hot water and ventilation controls.
• Ask where the stopcock, fuse board and meters are located.
• Record keys, fobs, remotes and access devices handed over.
• Photograph visible observations and label each photo by room or area.
• Ask about external areas, boundaries, drainage covers and any unfinished works.

Questions for the builder or developer

• What is the process and expected timeframe for addressing snag items?
• How do I report an issue after moving in?
• Who is the contact for urgent defects or emergencies?
• Which appliances and systems have warranties, and how do I register them?
• Can you demonstrate the heating, ventilation and hot-water controls?
• What routine maintenance is required for the ventilation and heating systems?
• Will I receive the final BER certificate and Advisory Report?
• Are any communal areas, roads, landscaping or services still awaiting completion?
• Are there management-company arrangements or charges I should understand?

Documents to request or organise

• Final BER certificate and Advisory Report, when available.
• Appliance manuals and warranty information.
• Heating, hot-water and ventilation operating instructions.
• Relevant completion, compliance and certification documents as applicable.
• Contact details for aftercare and defect reporting.
• House specification, plans and agreed variations.

Official resources

• SEAI: Find a BER
• CCPC: Making an offer and considering a survey

Last reviewed: November 2026. General information only.