New-Build Handover Advice
New-Build Handover Before Christmas: What to Check
By Andrew Kerrigan, RPSA Tech · 29 October 2026
Taking possession of a new home just before Christmas can be exciting—and hectic. Between arranging the move, deliveries and family plans, it’s easy to overlook a scratched surface, a stiff window or an unfinished detail.
A calm, systematic check helps you record what you see and raise it clearly with your builder. Here are some useful places to start.
Check the finishes and fittings
Look over walls, ceilings, floors, tiles, kitchen units and bathroom fittings. Note visible chips, scratches, damage, incomplete decoration or items that appear loose or unfinished. Check glass and mirrors in good light and take photographs of any marks you find.
Operate doors and windows
Use the normal handles and locks to check that accessible doors and windows open, close and secure as expected. Make a note of any that stick, catch, feel unusually stiff or do not close properly. Don’t force anything that appears jammed.
Look over accessible external areas
Where you can safely see them, note unfinished work, visible damage, loose-looking fittings, blocked drainage points or building debris left behind. A ground-level visual check cannot confirm the condition of areas that are out of sight or inaccessible.
Record and report what you find
For each item, write down the room or location, describe what you observed, and take a clear photograph. Send the list through the builder’s stated reporting process and keep a copy of your message and any response. If you’re unsure what is a defect, an independent snagging inspection can provide a more systematic record.
Independent new-build snagging surveys
Andrew Kerrigan, RPSA Tech, has more than 30 years of construction experience and carries out independent snagging inspections across the Wirral, Liverpool, Chester and surrounding areas. Findings are recorded in a clear photographic report.
Frequently asked questions
Should I report cosmetic damage at handover?
Record visible marks or damage as soon as you notice them and follow the builder’s reporting process. Clear, dated photographs can help show what you observed.
Can I arrange a snagging survey before completion?
Access before completion depends on the builder’s arrangements. Ask early whether an inspection can be booked before your handover date.
This article is general information. A snagging inspection is a visual assessment of accessible areas on the inspection date and does not guarantee that concealed defects or future problems will be identified.