Property Handover and Final Inspection

Purpose of the handover inspection

The handover inspection serves two purposes: to verify that the property is in the condition agreed at the time of sale (or as described in the purchase deed), and to record the condition of the property at the time of handover as a baseline for any future disputes about defects or damage.

The inspection should be conducted systematically — room by room, checking all fixtures, fittings and surfaces. Any defects or discrepancies from the agreed condition should be noted in the handover protocol and agreed with the seller before the keys are accepted.

What to check

During the handover inspection, buyers should check: all rooms for damage, defects or missing items; all fixtures and fittings (kitchen appliances, bathroom fixtures, light fittings, blinds, shutters); all doors and windows (condition, operation, locks); all keys (front door, apartment, letterbox, garage, storage); meter readings (electricity, gas, water); the condition of any outdoor areas (garden, terrace, parking); and the presence of all items agreed to be included in the sale.

Buyers should also verify that the property has been left in a clean and tidy condition, and that all personal belongings of the seller have been removed (unless agreed otherwise).

The handover protocol

The handover protocol (procès-verbal de remise) should record: the date and time of handover; the parties present; all keys handed over; meter readings; any defects or damage noted; any items agreed to be left or removed; and any other relevant observations.

Both parties sign the protocol. If the seller is not present, their representative (agent or lawyer) signs on their behalf. The buyer should retain a copy of the signed protocol.

Resolving issues at handover

If defects or discrepancies are identified at handover, the buyer has several options: accept the property as-is (if the defects are minor and do not materially affect the value or use of the property); negotiate a price reduction or a contribution to repair costs; require the seller to remedy the defects before accepting the keys; or, in extreme cases, refuse to accept the keys and seek legal advice.

In practice, most handover issues are minor and can be resolved by agreement between the parties. Buyers should approach the handover inspection constructively — the goal is to identify and resolve issues, not to create conflict.

Key points

• Handover inspection: verify condition and document baseline for future disputes
• Check all rooms, fixtures, fittings, doors, windows, keys, meters, outdoor areas
• Verify all agreed items are present and all seller's belongings removed
• Handover protocol signed by both parties — retain a copy
• Minor issues: negotiate resolution; major issues: seek legal advice before accepting keys