Step by step: the handover process

  1. Completion notice. The developer informs you that the building is complete, with the handover date, the final amount due, required documents and the key-collection procedure.
  2. Final payment. Pay the handover instalment according to your payment plan (in cash or with a mortgage arranged in advance — see mortgages). Post-handover plans continue after this step.
  3. Service charges and fees. Developers often request service charges from the handover date and certain admin fees. Ask for a clear statement of account.
  4. Snagging inspection. Inspect the unit yourself or with a professional snagging company. Record every defect with photos and submit the list through the developer's process.
  5. Utilities. Open a DEWA account (refundable security deposit: AED 2,000 for an apartment, AED 4,000 for a villa) and, if relevant, a district cooling account.
  6. Keys and documents. Collect keys, access cards, warranties and manuals.
  7. Title deed. Your Oqood registration is converted into a title deed through DLD. Verify it with DLD's title deed verification service or the Dubai REST app.

Snagging checklist: what to inspect

Walls, ceilings and floors

  • Cracks, uneven paint, stains, damp patches.
  • Hollow or cracked tiles, uneven joints, scratches on wooden floors.

Doors and windows

  • Doors close properly, locks work, no gaps.
  • Windows open, close and seal; no condensation or leaks; glass not scratched.

Kitchen

  • Cabinets aligned, hinges and drawers work.
  • Worktop without chips; sink and taps without leaks.
  • Appliances (if included) work.

Bathrooms

  • Water pressure and hot water.
  • No leaks under sinks or around toilets; drains flow properly.
  • Silicone and grout complete; tiles not cracked.

Electrical

  • Every socket and switch works; lights fit and work.
  • Distribution board labelled; no exposed wires.

Air conditioning

  • Every room cools; thermostats work; no leaks or noise.

Balcony and exterior

  • Railings secure; drainage works; no water pooling.

Building

  • Lifts, corridors, parking, gym and pool are finished as promised in the SPA.

Tip: Run all taps and showers for several minutes and switch on every AC unit during the inspection. Many defects only appear under use.

What the developer must fix

Defect type Developer liability (Law No. 6 of 2019)
Installations: mechanical, electrical, plumbing, sewerage 1 year from handover
Structural defects 10 years from the completion certificate

Report defects in writing, keep copies and photos, and follow up until they are fixed. If the developer does not respond, you can escalate through RERA.

Before handover: preparation

  • Check your SPA for the handover date, grace period and specifications (finishes, appliances, parking).
  • Arrange the final payment early, especially if you need a mortgage.
  • Plan for renting out: furnishing, a property manager and Ejari registration for long-term tenants, or a holiday home permit for short stays. See renting out property in Dubai.
  • Budget running costs: service charges and utilities start at handover. See service charges.

Need help at handover?

SPI Dubai supports clients through handover — from the final payment and snagging to finding tenants or reselling. Contact us — we usually reply within 10 minutes.

This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. Check your SPA and current DLD/RERA rules for your project.

Sources: Dubai Law No. 6 of 2019 on jointly owned property (Article 40); Dubai Land Department (Oqood, title deeds); DEWA; Bayut, "Dubai property handover" guide (2026).