Condo Turnover Guide
What to expect during unit turnover and how to protect your investment
- 1Turnover Notice
Developer sends a notice that your unit is ready for inspection and turnover. Usually 30-60 days before target turnover date.
- 2Schedule Inspection
Book an inspection slot with the developer's property management team. Bring someone knowledgeable (engineer, contractor, or experienced friend).
- 3Unit Inspection
Thorough inspection of all areas. Document all defects and issues on the punch list form provided.
- 4Submit Punch List
Submit your list of defects/issues. Developer has 30-60 days to rectify (check your contract for specific timeline).
- 5Re-inspection
After repairs, conduct re-inspection. Repeat until satisfactory.
- 6Acceptance & Key Handover
Sign acceptance documents. Receive keys, access cards, parking slot, and unit documents.
Walls, Ceiling & Floor
- Check for cracks, uneven surfaces, or paint imperfections
- Verify wall finish matches what was specified
- Check floor tiles for chips, cracks, or hollow tiles (tap test)
- Verify ceiling height and check for water stains
- Check corners and edges for proper finishing
Doors & Windows
- Open and close all doors — check for smooth operation
- Check door locks, handles, and hinges
- Test all windows — open, close, and lock
- Check for gaps or drafts around frames
- Verify screens are intact (if included)
- Check sliding door rollers and tracks
Electrical
- Test all outlets with a device (phone charger works)
- Test all light switches and fixtures
- Check circuit breaker panel — properly labeled
- Verify doorbell and intercom work
- Test exhaust fans in bathroom and kitchen
- Check AC provisions and outlet locations
Plumbing
- Turn on all faucets — check water pressure and drainage
- Flush toilets — verify proper function
- Check under sinks for leaks
- Test shower/bathtub drain
- Check water heater provisions
- Verify hot/cold water lines work correctly
Kitchen
- Check kitchen cabinets — doors, hinges, drawers
- Verify countertop condition and installation
- Check sink and faucet
- Verify stove/range hood provisions
- Check under-cabinet areas for proper sealing
Bathroom
- Check toilet — flush, fill, no leaks at base
- Test lavatory and faucet
- Check medicine cabinet/mirror
- Verify tile work and grouting
- Check floor drain and slope (water should drain properly)
- Test exhaust fan
Balcony (if applicable)
- Check railing height and stability
- Verify floor drain
- Check waterproofing on floor
- Inspect sliding door/window access
- Phone/camera for documentation
- Flashlight (check dark corners)
- Phone charger (test outlets)
- Masking tape (mark defects)
- Measuring tape
- Marble or small ball (check floor level)
- Notebook and pen
- Copy of floor plan
- Contract (for specifications)
- Companion (engineer/contractor if possible)
- Keys and Access
Unit keys, mailbox key, access cards, parking slot key/remote
- Unit Documents
Deed of Absolute Sale (or Contract to Sell), CCT (if available), Tax Declaration, as-built floor plan
- Warranty Documents
Warranty terms, warranty period dates, contact for warranty claims
- Condo Documents
House rules, move-in requirements, HOA contact, utility application forms
- Take your time. The inspection is your chance to document everything. Don't rush even if the staff seems impatient.
- Photograph everything. Take photos and videos of all defects with timestamps. This is your evidence.
- Don't sign until satisfied. You can request multiple re-inspections until issues are resolved.
- Know your warranty. Typical warranty is 1 year for defects. Document when your warranty period starts.
- Get everything in writing. All punch list items and developer commitments should be documented.
Important: Signing Acceptance
Once you sign the acceptance documents, you acknowledge that you've inspected the unit and found it acceptable. It becomes harder to claim defects after signing. Make sure all major issues are resolved or clearly documented as pending before you sign.