Before the visit
Ask for the possession letter, the occupancy certificate, the final demand with every charge itemised, and the approved floor plan. Check the carpet area in the sale agreement against what you measure.
Bring a tape measure, a spirit level, a phone charger to test sockets, a torch and a bucket of water.
Walls, floors and ceilings
Look for cracks, damp patches and uneven paint, especially under windows and near bathrooms. Tap floor tiles: a hollow sound means poor bonding. Check that floors slope towards drains in wet areas.
Doors, windows and fittings
Open and lock every door and window. Check frames for gaps, and that sliding windows run smoothly and seal. Test every switch, socket, fan point and the distribution board.
Kitchen and bathrooms
Run every tap and flush, and pour water to check drains do not back up. Look under sinks for leaks after a few minutes. Check hot water, exhaust fans and the gas line if one is provided.
Before you sign
Write every defect in a snag list, with photographs, and get it countersigned by the builder's representative with a date for repairs. Under the RERA Act, the builder must fix structural defects and workmanship problems reported within five years of possession, at no cost, within 30 days.
Collect the keys, meter readings, appliance warranties, the society or maintenance agreement and receipts for every payment.
Common questions
Should I sign the possession letter if there are defects?
Sign only with the snag list attached and acknowledged. The RERA defect liability period (five years) still applies after possession, but a written list from day one is the strongest record.
Sources
- Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016: section 14(3), defect liability
Last checked 2026-10-01.