Home Inspection Before Transfer: 50+ Point Checklist & How to Claim from Developer

Why Inspect Before Transfer?

When a developer notifies you of transfer, many buyers rush to sign without inspecting, then discover problems later that are difficult to claim. Pre-transfer inspection is your legal right — the developer must fix issues before transfer.

Tools to Prepare

• Marble ball (check floor levelness)
• Voltage tester screwdriver (check electrical)
• Colored tape (mark defects)
• Flashlight (inspect dark areas, under counters)
• Bucket/hose (test drainage)
• Camera/phone (document evidence)
• Notebook + pen

50+ Point Checklist

Structure & Walls

1. Wall cracks (interior and exterior)
2. Cracks around window/door corners
3. Walls smooth and even, no bulging
4. Ceiling smooth, no water stains
5. Columns/beams crack-free
6. Floor no cracks, no hollow spots (tap with rubber mallet)
7. Floor level and even (marble test)

Doors & Windows

8. All doors open/close smoothly
9. All locks functional
10. Windows open/close smoothly
11. Window rubber seals intact
12. Glass no scratches or cracks
13. Screen doors/windows intact
14. Waterproofing around windows — water test

Electrical System

15. All outlets have power (voltage tester)
16. All switches functional
17. All light fixtures working
18. MDB — breakers complete with labels
19. Ground wire connected correctly
20. Outlet positions match floor plan
21. Doorbell works
22. Intercom system (if applicable)

Plumbing & Fixtures

23. Water flows from all taps
24. Adequate water pressure (test multiple taps simultaneously)
25. No leaks under sinks
26. Sanitary ware no cracks or chips
27. Toilet flushes normally, no leaks
28. Floor drains — pour water to test flow
29. Showerhead even water distribution
30. Water heater functional (if included)
31. No bad odors from pipes

Paint & Finishing

32. Wall paint smooth and even
33. Ceiling paint no stains
34. Floor/wall tiles aligned, not hollow
35. Grout complete and sealed
36. Baseboards/crown molding properly fitted
37. Laminate/vinyl flooring no swelling or gaps

Kitchen & Counters

38. Countertops no cracks or chips
39. Drawers and cabinets open smoothly
40. Kitchen sink no leaks, proper connections
41. Exhaust fan/hood functional (if included)

Balcony & Exterior

42. Balcony floor slopes correctly (away from room)
43. Balcony railing sturdy, no wobbling
44. Rain gutters and external drainage
45. Roof (houses) — no leaks, no warping

Common Areas

46. Elevator functioning normally
47. Parking spot matches contract
48. Security system/key card
49. Pool, gym (matches brochure)
50. Fire escape, emergency lighting

Found Problems? What to Do

1. Photo + video every defect
2. List all issues and get developer staff to sign acknowledgment
3. Request written repair notice
4. Schedule re-inspection (typically 7-14 days)
5. Do NOT sign transfer until all repairs are complete

Tips for Successful Claims

• Inspect during daytime — natural light reveals defects
• Visit 1-2 days after rain — reveals water leaks
• Hire a professional inspector (3,000-8,000 THB) — very worth it
• Reference floor plans/contract specs
• Group with neighbors — same issues claimed together gets better results