New Home Handover Checklist: What Every Adelaide Homeowner Should Know
You’ve just received the keys to your dream home, an exciting milestone that often comes with a hidden question: Now what? While the hard work of building is complete, there are still a few important steps to take to ensure your home performs beautifully for years to come.
This blog walks you through your new home handover checklist, outlines what’s covered under builder warranty in South Australia, and explains what to look out for in the months following handover, so you can protect your investment and enjoy lasting peace of mind.
The First 90 Days: What to Expect After Handover
It’s completely normal for a newly built home to undergo a settling period. As materials acclimatise to temperature and humidity changes, you may notice small imperfections arise, like:
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Minor plaster cracking at joints or corners
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Doors swelling or rubbing slightly
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Shifts in cabinetry or skirting boards
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Hairline tile grout separations
These issues are rarely cause for concern and are generally cosmetic, not structural. Most builders (including Dornford) expect this and schedule a defects inspection within 3 to 12 months after handover to address them.
Understanding the Builder Warranty in South Australia
In South Australia, residential builders are required by law to provide a 6-year statutory warranty covering structural defects from the date of practical completion. Here’s how it breaks down:
Defects Liability Period (commonly 3–12 months)
This covers minor, non-structural defects, like paint touch-ups, joinery issues, or hairline cracks. Your builder should inspect and repair these within this period at no cost.
Structural Warranty (up to 6 years)
This includes major structural components like footings, slabs, framing, and load-bearing walls. If serious issues arise, you have legal recourse through your builder or relevant authorities.
Tip: Keep a written log of any issues you notice, including dates and photos, so they can be clearly communicated at your scheduled post-handover review.
Your New Home Handover Checklist: The Essentials
Whether your handover is days away or recently completed, this checklist will help you confidently transition into your new home.
Before You Move In
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Review your handover documents, including building approvals, warranty certificates, appliance manuals, and compliance reports.
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Confirm your builder has completed all agreed finishes and inclusions.
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Test taps, toilets, lights, and appliances to ensure everything is functioning as expected.
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Check keys, remote controls, and digital locks are working and documented.
In the First Few Weeks
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Monitor areas prone to settling (walls, ceiling joins, cabinetry).
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Keep rooms well ventilated to reduce moisture build-up, especially in bathrooms.
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Watch for signs of movement around doors, tiles, or windows.
In the First 3–12 Months
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Take note of any hairline cracks or cosmetic issues for your warranty inspection.
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Follow manufacturer instructions for appliances, HVAC systems, and finishes.
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Keep communication open with your builder, any reputable company should support you beyond the handover moment.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Adelaide Homes
To protect your home year-round, we recommend a seasonal maintenance schedule tailored to South Australia’s climate:
Summer
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Check air conditioning filters and clean vents
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Inspect external paint or render for UV damage
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Monitor water usage, especially if using rainwater tanks
Autumn
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Clear leaves from gutters and downpipes
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Prune overhanging trees or vegetation near roofing
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Inspect seals around windows and doors for gaps
Winter
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Check stormwater drainage systems
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Ensure heating systems are serviced and efficient
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Look for any signs of condensation or water ingress
Spring
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Wash external windows and cladding
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Review termite and pest prevention measures
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Service irrigation or garden reticulation systems
Why Post-Handover Care Matters
Your home is a significant financial and emotional investment. Taking the time to care for it, not just during the build, but afterwards, can prevent small problems from becoming big expenses.
At Dornford Building Group, we believe exceptional service doesn’t end at handover. We work closely with our clients through every stage, from design to delivery, and remain available to support you during the months and years that follow.
Final Thoughts
Handover is just the beginning of your journey as a homeowner. With a clear understanding of your new home handover checklist, a solid grasp of warranty protections in South Australia, and a proactive approach to maintenance, you can enjoy your new space with complete confidence.
For more, visit our other DBG Blogs or see www.youtube.com/@dornfordbuildinggroup.
Thinking of building in Adelaide or planning your next custom home? Talk to our team about how we can guide you from vision to handover, and well beyond.
