The deal: money & paperwork

Snagging and property inspection before handover

Before you take the keys, an independent inspection finds the defects — so the developer fixes them first and not at your cost later.

Structural defects10 years
Installations1 year after handover
Best momentBefore you sign
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What we do

  • An inspection of the unit before the handover
  • A written list of defects with photos
  • The list goes to the developer, and we follow the repairs
  • A second visit before you accept the keys

The process step by step

Before the handoverThe developer invites you to accept the unit — the inspection is done before you sign.
InspectionWalls, floors, doors and windows, plumbing, electricity, air conditioning, the balcony.
ReportA list of defects with photos and the place of each one.
RepairsThe list goes to the developer; we follow the dates.
Second visitWe check that everything is fixed — then you take the keys.

What you need to prepare

  • The handover notice from the developer
  • Access to the unit
  • A power of attorney, if we accept the unit for you

Good to know

  • It is easier to get defects fixed before you sign the handover
  • The inspection is also useful before buying a ready property

What you get with us

An independent eyeThe inspector works for you, not for the developer.
A document, not wordsA written report the developer has to answer.
You can be abroadWe attend the inspection and the handover for you.

Questions and answers

Do I need an inspection in a brand-new unit?

Yes. New units regularly have defects in finishes, plumbing, electricity and air conditioning, and it is easiest to get them fixed before you accept the keys.

How long is the developer responsible for defects?

By Dubai law — 10 years for structural defects and 1 year from the handover for mechanical, electrical and sanitary installations.

Can I do the inspection after the handover?

Yes, within the one-year period, but it is harder: once you have signed, the developer is slower to react.

Is it useful when buying a ready property?

Yes — you see the real condition before you agree the price.

See also

Property managementOff-plan projects

Related services

Mortgage in Dubai for residents and non-residentsA mortgage in the UAE is available to residents and to non-residents.Conveyancing: contract, NOC and transfer in DubaiWe handle the paperwork of the deal from the contract to the title deed — also when you cannot fly in.

All services

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Buy ready propertiesInvest in new projectsBelow-market dealsPrivate equity & portfolios

The deal: money & paperwork

Mortgage advisoryConveyancing

After you own

Property managementRental managementSell your propertyConstruction managementUpgrades & interior design

Visas, company & advice

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Seafront Properties is a RERA-licensed brokerage in Dubai (ORN 32533). Rules, fees and conditions change — the figures on this page are a guide; we confirm them for your case before you decide. Sources: Dubai Law No. 6 of 2019.

Snagging & inspections — let's talk

Write to us on WhatsApp — we answer the same day, check the availability and send the floor plans and the payment plan.

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