Practical Completion
The new build, alteration or renovation has been completed, this section explains what you should expect.
Once the building work has been completed, and all trades have finished, the builder will do a “builders clean” of removing all rubbish from site and a general basic clean. Some builders may also organise a professional, deep clean on top of this. Next is the Practical Completion, Defects List & invoice.
Practical Completion
The Practical Completion will trigger a Form 21 issued by the Certifier and includes your name, address and space to write a minor defect list. With this in hand you usually inspect the home with your builder, going through each space and discussing anything that you feel is not finished.
During this meeting, you should note down any minor defects that you and your builder agree on. Prior to this, you would usually have regular catch ups and discuss any major concerns which would be dealt with during the build.
Minor defects may be things like paint touch ups. This list is given to the builder is order for them to co-ordinate their team to perform the work in a timely manner. Not all defects may be defects and the builder does have a right to reply to the defect list… in which case you should negotiate with your builder.
Handover
This takes place at the home and is where you’ll be given certificates, keys and warranties. Once handover has taken place you are able to move back in – if you’ve had to move out for the building project. Essentially this is where the builders insurance ends, and your home insurance begins.
