Property handover support

What handover involves

Handover is the point where an off-plan property becomes yours to use. The developer issues a handover notice listing what you need to do: final instalments, any outstanding service charges, and documents for the title deed process. Our guide to title deeds and Oqood explains the registration side. After that, you inspect the unit, sign the handover documents and receive keys and access. For an investor, the job is not finished at keys. The unit still has to be ready for a tenant.

Our handover process

1. Notice review. We read the handover notice with you and list each payment, document and appointment. 2. Snagging inspection. We arrange an inspection of finishes, fittings, plumbing, electrics and AC, and photograph each defect. Our snagging checklist shows what is usually covered. 3. Defect submission. The defect list goes to the developer through its handover process. 4. Follow-up. We check that fixes are done before you sign, or that they are recorded for repair under the defects arrangement if you choose to accept handover first. 5. Utilities and access. We coordinate the DEWA connection, building move-in registration, access cards and parking. 6. Letting readiness. We check the unit is clean, working and photographed, then hand over to tenant management.

What you need to provide

• The sale and purchase agreement and Oqood or title deed documents
• Proof that final payments are made, or a plan to make them
• Your passport copy and a power of attorney if someone attends handover for you
• Contact details for the developer's customer service and handover team
• Any warranties or manuals the developer provides

Service charges and community setup

Service charges for jointly owned property are governed by Law No. 6 of 2019 and administered through Mollak. Check that your account is up to date at handover, because buildings may hold access cards or permits until it is. Our service charges guide explains how budgets are set. Many buildings also require a move-in permit before anyone, including a tenant, can move in. That is covered on our apartment management page.

What you receive

A handover checklist with each item ticked off, the snagging report with photos, the developer's responses, copies of utility and building registrations, and a short letting-readiness note with anything worth doing before marketing.