Handover is the moment every home buyer looks forward to — the day you finally get the keys and your new home becomes officially yours. But what actually happens at handover? And what should you expect?
Here’s a simple breakdown of how it works.
1. Your Home is Finished and the Builder Issues the Final Invoice
Once construction is complete and your builder has finished all the final touches, they’ll issue the final payment invoice. This means the home has reached practical completion and is ready for you to inspect.
Your lender will normally need:
- The final invoice
- The builder’s documents
- Any required compliance certificates
Once the bank is happy, they’ll schedule the final payment. Handover can only be booked once this payment has been made.
2. You’ll Do a Pre-Handover (PCI) Inspection
Before you get your keys, you’ll be invited to a Pre-Handover (Practical Completion) Inspection.
This is your chance to walk through the home and check that:
- All fixtures and fittings are installed
- Painting, tiling and flooring are complete
- Doors, windows and cabinetry operate correctly
- Any previously noted items have been fixed
- The home matches your plans and selections
If anything needs minor adjustments, the builder will organise touch-ups. This is totally normal — almost every home has a few small items to tidy up.
3. Final Payment Clears and Handover Is Booked
Once the bank pays the final invoice, the builder books your official handover appointment. This is usually very quick — often within a few days.
At handover, you’ll receive:
- The keys and garage remotes
- Any manuals or warranties
- Compliance certificates
- Instructions for maintenance and care
- Your final handover documents
From this moment, the home is legally yours and you’re free to move in.
4. What Happens After Handover?
After you’ve moved in, your builder may have a warranty period where you can note any minor items that appear once the home settles — things like small cracks in plaster or sticky doors. This is normal and part of every new build.
You’ll also start taking care of things like:
- Utilities and connections
- Home insurance
- Landscaping
- Any upgrades you want to add later
Handover is the start of the fun part — actually living in the home you’ve been waiting for.
