7 Things Homeowner Should Know Upon Collecting Your New House Keys

7 Things Homeowner Should Know Upon Collecting Your New House Key

Getting the keys to your new house might feel like the finish line, but there's more ahead. From figuring out warranties to understanding the handover process and making your house habitable, let’s unpack what you really need to know to smooth out those moving day bumps!

1.   DELIVERY OF VACANT POSSESSION
Vacant Possession (VP) is a legal term that signifies a property is safe and ready for occupancy. This status is confirmed when the developer hands over the house keys to the buyer, following the copy of the Certificate of Completion and Compliance (CCC).


It’s common to be notified about vacant possession when a primary purchase property is about 70% complete. This notification from the developer will include a scheduled date for you to collect your keys.

However, there can be delays. If a developer doesn’t secure an extension approval from local authorities, you may be eligible to claim LAD. It’s advisable to consult with a lawyer to ensure you meet the requirements for such a claim before proceeding to court.
2.   CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION AND COMPLIANCE (CCC)
The Certificate of Completion and Compliance (CCC), also known as Form F, certifies that a building is safe and fit for occupation. It is issued only after confirming that all design and construction comply with the standards set by local authorities. A copy of the Certificate of Completion and Compliance (CCC) will handed to houseowner when developer handover the key.

Essentially, the CCC is a self-regulated, self-certified process that ensures the technical and safety standards of building construction are met. It must be endorsed by a registered member of the Malaysian Board of Architects (LAM) and is a required document in the Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA).

The CCC system, which replaced the older Certificate of Fitness for Occupation (CFO), is designed to be more effective and transparent, with reduced potential for corruption.

The issuance of the CCC requires the following confirmations:
 
  • Roads and drainage are properly constructed.
  • Electrical supply has been established by Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB).
  • Water supply is secured from the relevant water authorities, such as SYABAS.
  • Sewage connections have been approved by Jabatan Perkhidmatan Pembentungan.
  • Fire and Rescue Department (BOMBA) has cleared the active fire fighting systems.
  • Department of Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) has approved machinery and lift systems.
Occupying a building without a CCC is illegal, making it crucial for purchasers to ensure the certificate is issued before accepting Vacant Possession (VP).
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Sample of the Certificate of Completion and Compliance (CCC)

Source: Facebook


3.   SIGN HANDOVER FORM
When you meet the developer to take possession of your property, you will sign several documents to confirm receipt of the keys. This process not only records the handover but also initiates the defect liability period for your property.

Included in these documents will be an inventory list detailing lighting fixtures, appliances, electrical sockets, and other built-in features. Ensure the actual inventory matches this list before signing.
 

Sample of the Purchaser Handover Form


4. Check Construction Defect
The defect liability period acts as a "warranty" for new homeowners, lasting 18 to 24 months, to identify and report any defects or deviations from the sales and purchase agreement. It is advisable to inspect the property thoroughly early on, ideally before moving in, as it is easier to address issues when the house is empty.

The developer provides a defect complaint form to document any issues found in the house, such as loose electrical sockets or misaligned flooring. Even minor problems should be reported to avoid future repair costs, as unreported issues become the homeowner's financial responsibility after the defect liability period ends.
 

Sample of the Defect Complaint Form

Some individuals opt to save time and effort by engaging Defects Inspection Services. These services conduct thorough inspections, providing detailed reports and markings of any property defects. This ensures all issues are identified and documented, aiding in organized and efficient repairs.

4.1.0 Walls 
 
Wall Tile - Chipping

4.1.1 Chipping

Wall Tile - Chipping
Wall tile has visible chipping at the edges. Recommend evaluation and remedial action.
Location: Master Bedroom Bathroom

Wall Surface - Uneven

4.1.2 Uneven

Wall Surface - Uneven
The wall surface is uneven. Recommend evaluation and remedial action.
Location: Master Bedroom Bathroom

Sample of the Defects Inspection Report
Source: Home Inspection

5. FIND MANAGEMENT
This step is crucial for homeowners with strata-titled properties. If you own a condominium, serviced apartment, or property in a gated community, pay attention. In strata properties, the management office oversees the estate and shared facilities. Initially, this is done by the developer-selected Joint Management Body for about 2 years. After this period, a Management Committee, elected by owners during the Annual General Meeting, takes over.

Getting to know your neighbors and understanding management procedures is beneficial. It simplifies tasks like applying for work permits or paying maintenance fees. Additionally, familiarize yourself with house rules, such as pet policies and grill installation specifications. Building good relationships with the management team can also help them be more supportive if issues arise.

Renovation Rules

  1. All owners/tenants/contractors are to adhere to renovation guidelines, house rule and government authorities strictly.
  2. The owner/tenant shall be held responsible for any claims/damages that may arise in the event the unit owner/tenant or appointed contractors fail to comply with and observe the house rules and government regulation.
  3. Contractors are to wear the contractor's passes at all times within the project.
  4. Contractor are to ensure all workers wear personal protection equipment (PPE) at all times during the renovation period/working hours.
  5. The management reserve the right to copy of insurance polis(public liability, contractors' all risk and workmen's compensation for record purpose.
  6. Owner/tenant/contractors are only allowed to unloads goods/renovation materials at the designated loading/unloading area.
  7. Contractors must adhere strictly to the working hours according to government authorities permitted rules and House rules. The owner/tenant/contractors shall be liable for penalty of RM 500 per day/per offence for any works carried beyond the permitted hours as define by government authorities and house rules.
  8. Strictly no work permitted on Sunday and Public Holiday.
  9. This notice must be displayed at all times during the renovation period.
  10. Hacking on beams, columns and floors is STRICTLY PROHIBITED.
Hacking, hammering, drilling and noise pollution works only permitted:
Monday–Friday from 9.00am–5.00pm
Saturday from 9.00am–12.00pm

Electrical Works, Painting, Flooring, Partitions, Glass Door and Aircon Works:
Monday–Friday from 9.00am–5.00pm
Saturday from 9.00am–12.00pm

SUNDAY AND PUBLIC HOLIDAY (NO WORK ALLOWED)

*The owner / tenant / contractors shall be liable for a penalty of RM500 per day / per offence for any works carried out beyond the above permitted hours.

6.   APPLY FOR UTILITIES

Some developers require you to apply for utilities while the property is still being built, while others wait until after construction is complete. In either case, it's best to handle these applications promptly.

Common utilities to apply for include:

  • Water supply: SYABAS Water Supply Application (Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya & Selangor)
  • Electricity supply: TNB New Account Application
  • Internet: TM UNIFI Maxis New Account Application

Additionally, there are a few things you need to ensure, such as changing the owner's name to yours.

  • For all types of properties: Assessment Tax (Cukai Pintu)
  • Only for landed properties: Quit Rent/Parcel Rent (Cukai Tanah)

7.   PLAN YOUR SPACE

After receiving the keys to your new home, it’s essential to make the most of this exciting milestone. To ensure your property meets your needs and preferences, consider focusing on three key areas: space planning, structural extensions, and renovation & refurbishment.

Addressing these aspects will help you create a comfortable, functional, and personalized living environment.


 

Jun 10,2025