When it comes to the culmination of a construction project, the handover phase is a pivotal moment for a successful handover. It’s the juncture where the contractor formally delivers the project to the client or owner, marking the transition from construction to operation. To ensure a smooth project handover, a construction handover checklist is a must-have document. It serves as the compass guiding this pivotal handover process, preventing confusion or misunderstandings.

The contents of a construction handover checklist may vary based on the nature and scale of the project, but there are common elements that should be included. Let’s dive into the key components:

1. The Handover Parties

• Name and Contact Details: Clearly state the contact information of the person or team responsible for the handover, as well as the individual or team receiving the project. This is the foundation of communication.
• Managing expectations – Do all the parties know what to expect and what project information will be provided?

2. Date and Milestones

• Handover Date and Time: Specify the date and time of the handover. Additionally, include any deadlines or milestones that must be met during or after the handover.
• Draft FM Manual Review – Specify a date when the project team and all parties can review the project information for the entire project.

3. Purpose and Objectives

• Work’s Purpose and Objectives: Define the reasons behind the handover, as well as the intended outcomes and deliverables. This sets the expectations.
• Project Handover Procedure – has the handover process been defined and agreed? If the project is to be handed over for beneficial occupancy from the construction phase, a handover strategy may need to be discussed with the client

4. Work Status and Progress

• Status and Progress: Detail the current status and progress of the work. Be sure to highlight any existing issues or risks that require attention or resolution.
• Snagging and Defects period – Specify the date and time of snagging to all parties, allowing them to raise any issues allowing a smooth handover if any issues are already raised. If any handover documentation will be missing due to work, raise this with the client and communicate the strategy for Completion.

5. Documentation and Paperwork

• Project Documentation: Include a comprehensive list of all project-related documentation. This can range from project plans and specifications to permits, certificates, warranties, as-built drawings, and other relevant paperwork.
• Early Preparation – Try to send your information across to the client in early intervals. By giving early site of documentation, this will prevent delays when the project is handed over.

6. Quality and Occupancy Inspections

• Inspection Reports: Provide information regarding any quality and occupancy inspections conducted by the contractor, the client, or third parties such as local authorities, surveyors, or consultants. This should encompass test results, inspection reports, feedback, and recommendations.
• Beneficial Occupancy – Establish is there is a need for beneficial occupancy of the building or if full project completion is required. Beneficial occupancy requires all Life, Health & Safety information to be provided with the remaining information to be provided as soon as the construction process is completed.

7. Completion of Construction Work

• Work Completion: Document the completion of construction work carried out by the contractor or subcontractors. This includes cleaning, snagging, defect rectification, and any final touches. Ensure evidence and confirmation that work aligns with the contract and satisfies the client’s requirements.

8. Handover Meeting Details

• Handover Meeting: Highlight the handover meeting that takes place between the contractor and the client. This should encompass the purpose of the meeting, minutes, action points, and any follow-up tasks agreed upon during the meeting.
• Forms – collect, print and sign any forms that are required at the handover meeting. Prepopulating the information will assist in a timely and smooth project handover process.

9. Post-Handover Support

• Support Information: Outline any post-handover support offered by the contractor to the client. This might include training, maintenance, warranty services, or troubleshooting. Provide contact details, schedules, terms and conditions, and instructions for this purpose.

In summary, a construction handover checklist is your blueprint for a successful transition from construction to operation. It ensures that every important aspect of the project is considered and properly documented. By meticulously going through each of these checklist items, you can significantly reduce the chances of misunderstandings or complications during this critical phase of your project.