Got the Keys? 10 Things Every Homebuyer Must Check Before Moving In

Buying a home is one of life’s biggest financial decisions. After months of waiting, paperwork and construction updates, receiving the keys can feel like the finish line. But before moving furniture into a new apartment or celebrating the handover, there is one important step buyers should never rush: the final property inspection.

A freshly painted home may look perfect at first glance, but appearances can hide plumbing leaks, faulty electrical fittings, uneven flooring or incomplete amenities. Equally important are the legal documents that establish whether the property is ready for occupation.

With the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA) providing important safeguards for homebuyers, understanding what to inspect before possession has become essential.

Here are 10 things every buyer should check before accepting the keys.

Benefits of the RERA Act for Homebuyers

1. Verify the Occupancy and Completion Certificates

Before accepting possession, ask the developer for the relevant Completion Certificate (CC) and Occupancy Certificate (OC), as applicable under local regulations.

A Completion Certificate confirms that construction has been completed in accordance with the approved building plans. An Occupancy Certificate establishes that the building is fit for occupation, with the required civic infrastructure and services.

These documents are critical because a completed-looking apartment does not automatically mean the building has received permission for occupation.

2. Inspect Walls, Ceilings and Paintwork

Look beyond the fresh coat of paint. Examine walls and ceilings for cracks, damp patches, peeling paint, seepage marks and signs of water leakage.

Pay particular attention to:

• Corners of rooms and ceiling joints.
• Areas around windows and balconies.
• Bathroom walls adjoining bedrooms.
• External walls exposed to rain.

Small cosmetic imperfections may be manageable, but persistent dampness or structural cracks deserve professional attention.

3. Check Flooring, Doors and Windows

Walk across every room and inspect the flooring for uneven tiles, hollow sounds, cracks or loose sections. Check whether doors close properly and whether locks, handles and hinges work smoothly.

Open and close every window to test its movement and locking mechanism. Also inspect window frames and balcony doors for gaps that could allow rainwater or dust to enter.

4. Test Electrical Fittings and Safety Systems

Electrical problems can become expensive and potentially dangerous if overlooked.

Switch on all lights, fans, exhaust systems and power sockets. Check the distribution board, circuit breakers and earthing arrangements with a qualified electrician where necessary.

Also verify:

• Proper functioning of MCBs and RCCB/ELCB protection.
• Adequate power points in each room.
• Air-conditioner and geyser connections.
• Backup power availability, as promised.
• Smoke detectors and fire-safety provisions in applicable buildings.

Never attempt to inspect live electrical wiring yourself.

5. Test Water Supply and Plumbing

Water-related problems are among the most inconvenient issues to discover after moving in.

Turn on every tap, shower and washbasin. Check water pressure, drainage speed and hot-water connections. Flush all toilets and inspect the concealed plumbing areas for leakage.

Look underneath kitchen sinks and bathroom basins for dampness or dripping pipes. Also ask about the source of water, storage arrangements, sewage disposal and the availability of backup water supply.

6. Examine the Kitchen and Bathroom Finishing

These two spaces experience daily wear and tear, making their inspection particularly important.

In the kitchen, check countertop finishing, cabinet hinges, sink drainage, electrical points and the designated LPG or piped gas connection.

In bathrooms, inspect waterproofing indicators, floor slopes, drainage outlets, sanitary fittings, shower areas and ventilation.

Ensure that water does not accumulate on bathroom floors after testing the drainage.

7. Check Lifts, Parking and Common Areas

Your apartment is only one part of the property. The overall residential experience also depends on the quality of shared facilities.

Inspect the following:

• Lift operation and emergency communication systems.
• Staircases, corridors and emergency exits.
• Basement and designated parking spaces.
• Security arrangements and CCTV systems.
• Fire extinguishers and firefighting equipment.
• Clubhouse, swimming pool, gym and landscaped areas, if promised.

Compare the actual facilities with the amenities listed in your agreement and approved project specifications.

8. Verify the Legal and Financial Paperwork

Before signing the final possession documents, make sure the paperwork is complete and consistent.

Important documents include:

• Registered Agreement for Sale.
• Allotment letter and payment receipts.
• Occupancy and Completion Certificates, as applicable.
• Approved building plans and relevant approvals.
• Final demand statement and outstanding dues.
• Possession letter.
• Warranty and maintenance documentation.
• Details of the project’s RERA registration.

Also verify applicable property tax, electricity, water and maintenance dues. Check the conveyance deed and registration requirements with a qualified legal professional.

9. Document Every Defect Before Signing

Found a leaking tap, cracked tile or malfunctioning switch? Do not rely on verbal assurances.

Prepare a written snag list containing every defect, preferably supported by photographs and videos. Share it with the developer and request written acknowledgement along with a rectification timeline.

Keep copies of inspection reports, emails and handover communications. If possible, conduct the final walkthrough with a professional property inspector or civil engineer.

A documented record can make follow-ups considerably easier.

10. Understand Your Rights Under RERA

Accepting possession does not mean buyers automatically lose protection against construction defects.

Under Section 14(3) of the RERA Act, if a structural defect or qualifying defect in workmanship, quality or services is brought to the developer’s notice within five years from the date of handing over possession, the promoter must rectify it without further charge within 30 days.

If the promoter fails to do so, the affected allottee may be entitled to appropriate compensation under the Act.

Section 17 also addresses the transfer of title through a registered conveyance deed and the handover of relevant documents and common areas.

Understanding these provisions can help buyers approach possession with greater confidence.

The Final Walkthrough: A Small Step That Protects a Big Investment

Taking possession is an exciting milestone, but the excitement should not overshadow the importance of due diligence. A systematic inspection, proper documentation and verification of legal clearances can prevent avoidable disputes and unexpected repair expenses.

Whether purchasing a compact apartment, a premium residence or an independent house, buyers should remember one simple principle: Never judge a home by its appearance alone. Inspect what is behind the walls, verify what is on paper and document what is promised.

At 99Realty, we believe an informed homebuyer makes a confident property decision. Because getting the keys is only the beginning of owning a home.