TOP Handover: Your First 14 Days Checklist

By Keith Tan Boon Kee | January 2026

Congratulations! Your new condo has reached TOP (Temporary Occupation Permit), and you're about to collect your keys. But before you start planning your housewarming party, there's critical work to be done in the first 14 days.

Having managed TOP handovers for 4,379 units across Normanton Park, Florence Residences, and The Commodore, I've compiled this comprehensive checklist to help you navigate this crucial period.

Why the First 14 Days Matter

The developer's defect liability period (DLP) typically lasts 12 months from key collection. However, many issues are easier to identify and fix when the unit is empty. Once you've moved in furniture and started living there, some defects become harder to spot or prove.

Day 1-3: Initial Inspection

What to Bring

Blue tape or masking tape (to mark defects)

Notepad and pen

Phone/camera for photos

Flashlight (for dark corners)

Level tool (or phone app)

This checklist

Flooring Check

[ ] Walk every tile slowly, listening for hollow sounds

[ ] Check for cracks, chips, or uneven tiles

[ ] Inspect grout lines for gaps or discoloration

[ ] Test laminate/timber flooring for squeaks

[ ] Verify floor is level (use a marble or level app)

Walls and Ceiling

[ ] Look for cracks, especially at corners and joints

[ ] Check paint finish for drips, patches, or uneven color

[ ] Inspect for water stains (signs of leakage)

[ ] Verify walls are straight and corners are square

[ ] Check ceiling for sagging or cracks

Windows and Doors

[ ] Open and close every window smoothly

[ ] Check window seals and locks

[ ] Test all door handles and locks

[ ] Verify doors close properly without gaps

[ ] Check sliding door tracks for debris

Electrical

[ ] Test every power outlet with a phone charger

[ ] Switch on all lights, including feature lights

[ ] Check aircon units turn on and cool properly

[ ] Test doorbell and intercom

[ ] Verify ceiling fan direction and speeds

Plumbing

[ ] Run all taps for 2-3 minutes, check for leaks underneath

[ ] Flush toilets multiple times

[ ] Check water pressure in showers

[ ] Inspect all visible pipes for leaks

[ ] Test floor trap drainage (pour water and watch it drain)

Day 4-7: Report Defects

How to Report

Take clear photos of every defect with blue tape marking

Document location precisely (e.g., "Master bedroom, left wall, 1.5m from door")

Submit through the developer's official defect reporting system

Keep copies of everything you submit

Common Defects I've Seen

From my experience with 4,379 units, the most frequent issues are:

High Frequency (80%+ of units)

Hollow tiles

Minor paint imperfections

Door alignment issues

Window seal gaps

Medium Frequency (30-50% of units)

Aircon drainage problems

Electrical outlet issues

Grout cracks

Cabinet door alignment

Lower Frequency (10-20% of units)

Waterproofing failures

Major tile cracks

Plumbing leaks

Structural cracks

Day 7-10: Utilities Setup

SP Services

[ ] Apply for electricity account opening

[ ] Apply for water account opening

[ ] Schedule meter reading/activation

Website: spgroup.com.sg

Internet/TV

[ ] Check which providers service your condo

[ ] Schedule installation (book early, slots fill up at new TOPs)

[ ] Common providers: Singtel, StarHub, M1, MyRepublic

Town Council

[ ] Register with your town council

[ ] Set up GIRO for S&CC payments

[ ] Note bulk refuse collection days

Day 10-14: Preparation for Move-In

If Renovating

[ ] Get renovation approval from MCST

[ ] Note permitted renovation hours

[ ] Place renovation deposit

[ ] Coordinate contractor access

If Moving In Directly

[ ] Deep clean the unit (developer cleaning is basic)

[ ] Check fire safety equipment (extinguisher, hose reel location)

[ ] Collect access cards/fobs

[ ] Register vehicles for parking

[ ] Download condo app (if available)

Important Contacts to Save

MCST/Building Management office

24-hour security

Developer's defect hotline

Emergency maintenance

If You're Leasing Out

For investment properties, the first 14 days are even more critical:

Immediate Actions

[ ] Complete defect inspection (tenants won't do this thoroughly)

[ ] Professional photography for listings

[ ] Set competitive rental price (I can help with market analysis)

[ ] List on PropertyGuru, 99.co, and other portals

Documentation

[ ] Keep all defect reports

[ ] Photograph unit condition before tenant moves in

[ ] Document all appliances and fixtures

Pro Tips from 4,379 Units

Go twice- Do your first inspection, then return 2-3 days later. You'll spot things you missed.

Check at night- Some electrical and lighting issues only show up in darkness.

Run water for longer- Short tests don't reveal slow leaks or drainage issues.

Look up- Ceiling and high wall defects are commonly missed.

Open everything- Every cabinet, every drawer, every compartment.

Test during rain- If possible, inspect window seals during or after rain.

When to Get Professional Help

Consider engaging a professional inspection service if:

You're overseas and can't inspect personally

The unit is large (3BR+) with many areas to check

You want documented evidence for disputes

You're not confident spotting defects

Need TOP Handover Support?

I've personally managed TOP handovers for thousands of units and can guide you through the process, whether you're moving in or leasing out.

Services I provide:

Defect inspection guidance

Contractor recommendations

Leasing support for investors

Unit preparation advice

Contact Keith Tan:

WhatsApp: +65 9750 1055

WeChat: keithtanbk

CEA: R003793E | ERA Realty Network

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Estimates only, not guaranteed, figures may change.