Dubai Handover & Snagging
Handover is the moment an off-plan unit becomes a real asset: you settle the final instalment, inspect the unit, log defects (snagging), pay handover costs and receive keys plus the title deed. Getting the sequence right protects both your warranty rights and your first year of rent.
Key takeaways
- Snag before you accept keys — leverage drops afterwards.
- Developers carry a 1-year defects and 10-year structural warranty.
- Budget AED 15,000–35,000 in handover costs on a mid-market unit.
- First tenancy can usually start within 3–5 weeks of handover.
Handover cost checklist
| Item | Typical amount |
|---|---|
| Final instalment | Per payment plan |
| DLD fee (if not prepaid) | 4% of price |
| Service-charge prepayment | 6–12 months |
| DEWA connection deposit | AED 2,000–4,000 |
| District cooling activation | AED 2,000–3,000 |
| Snagging inspection | AED 800–2,500 |
| Move-in permit | AED 500–1,500 |
Snagging checklist essentials
- Door and window alignment, seals and locks
- Water pressure, drainage and visible leaks under every sink
- AC output temperature in each room and thermostat response
- Electrical points tested, DB board labelled, RCD trips correctly
- Tile lippage, grout, silicone and skirting finish
- Paint coverage, wall flatness and ceiling cornice
- Kitchen appliances powered and tested; warranty cards present
- Balcony drainage fall and glazing balustrade fixings
Your warranty rights
Under UAE law developers carry a one-year warranty on fixtures, mechanical and electrical installations and a ten-year warranty on structural defects. Log every snag in writing with photographs and a dated list; verbal acceptance weakens later claims.
For overseas owners, Miri Homes attends handover, runs the snagging inspection, chases rectification and photographs the resolved list before we place a tenant.
Frequently asked questions
What is snagging in Dubai?
A pre-acceptance inspection where every defect in a newly handed-over unit is documented so the developer must rectify it under warranty before you accept the property.
How much does snagging cost in Dubai?
A professional snagging inspection on an apartment costs roughly AED 800–2,500 depending on size, usually including a re-inspection.
How long is the developer warranty in Dubai?
One year for fixtures and MEP installations, ten years for structural defects from the date of completion.