Key takeaways
Inspect thoroughly before signing the possession letter; defects are easier to fix before you move in.
Test every tap, switch, door and window, and check for seepage, cracks and slope in wet areas.
Record defects with photos and get a written commitment and date for repairs.
Under RERA, structural defects reported within five years of possession must generally be rectified by the promoter.

The day you receive the possession letter is exciting, but it is also the best time to identify defects. Once you move in and install furniture, small problems become hard to spot and harder to get fixed. This snag list helps you inspect methodically.

What to carry

A printout of this checklist and your approved floor plan.
A torch, a small level or spirit-level app, a tape or laser measure.
A phone charger or a small device to test sockets.
A marble or ball to check floor slopes.
A notebook and your phone for photos.
Masking tape to mark defects.

Room-by-room checklist

Walls and ceilings

Cracks, uneven plaster, paint patches and damp stains.
Seepage near windows, bathrooms and external walls.
Ceiling stains below bathrooms of the floor above.

Floors and tiles

Hollow-sounding tiles (tap with a coin).
Chipped or uneven tiles and wide grout gaps.
Slope in bathrooms and balconies so water flows to drains.

Doors and windows

Doors close properly, locks work and keys are provided.
Windows open smoothly, seal well and have no broken glass.
Mesh, grills and handles are fitted as promised.

Electrical

Every switch and socket works.
The distribution board is labelled and has earth-leakage protection where specified.
Fans, lights and points are where the plan shows.
Meter is installed and in whose name.

Plumbing

Run every tap and shower; check pressure and hot water.
Flush every toilet; check for leaks under sinks.
Drains in bathrooms, kitchen and balconies clear quickly.
No leakage marks on the floor below.

Kitchen

Platform level and fixed securely.
Sink, water inlet and outlet work.
Gas pipeline, if provided, has been tested and certified.

Balconies and utility areas

Railings secure and at a safe height.
Water drains away.

Common areas

Lifts working with valid certification.
Fire extinguishers, hydrants, alarms and signage in place. See fire safety in high-rise apartments.
Parking allotted as per the agreement.
Lobby, staircases and corridors finished.

Documents to collect at possession

Document	Why
Possession letter	Records the date of handover
Occupancy or completion certificate	Confirms legality; see OC vs CC
Final statement of account	Confirms what you paid and any dues
Warranty cards and manuals	For fittings and appliances
Parking allotment letter	Records your slot
Society or maintenance agreement	Explains charges

Raising defects

Photograph every defect with a note of location.
Submit a written snag list to the developer and keep an acknowledgment.
Agree a repair date and re-inspect.
Sign the possession letter only after reading it fully; avoid clauses that say you accept the unit "as is" with no defects if defects exist.

Defect liability under RERA

Under RERA, if a structural defect, workmanship or quality issue, or a defect in services is brought to the promoter's notice within five years from the date of handing over possession, the promoter is generally required to rectify it without further charge within the time set by law. Keep records of when you reported each defect.

Next, see our moving-in checklist.

Frequently asked questions

What is a snag list?

A snag list is a written record of defects found during inspection of a new home before possession, given to the developer for repair.

Should I sign the possession letter if there are defects?

Record the defects in writing, ideally before signing, and avoid accepting clauses that say the unit is defect-free. Keep evidence of the snag list submission.

How long is the builder responsible for defects?

Under RERA, structural and quality defects reported within five years of possession must generally be rectified by the promoter without extra charge.

Can I hire someone to inspect my flat?

Yes. Independent home inspection professionals can test moisture, electrical and plumbing systems more thoroughly.

Related HomeAcross guides

Official sources and further reading

This guide is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules, rates and procedures change; confirm current requirements with the relevant authority or a qualified professional before you act. Read our editorial policy.

Possession Snag List: How to Inspect a New Flat Before Taking Keys

Join the conversation