7 Things Homeowner Should Know Upon Collecting Your New House Keys

7 Things Homeowner Should Know
                                                              Upon Collecting Your New House Keys

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!

---

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 be 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).

 

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 
 

4.1.1 Chipping

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

4.1.2 Uneven

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

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)