Knowledge hub14 questions

Handover, defects and aftercare, answered plainly.

Handover, the defects period and aftercare, once you move back in.

Handover, defects and aftercareStraight answers

What people ask us about handover, defects and aftercare.

What should happen at practical completion?

Our contract sets the completion threshold and the inspection arrangements. It also covers outstanding items and possession.

Practical completion is not the same as every later task being finished. That includes administrative and defects tasks.

Next Review your contract’s completion and handover requirements with us before the date.

What is snagging and when does it happen?

Snagging records items that need completing or correcting.

We agree the inspection process, responsibilities and target dates. Then we track closure against one list.

Next We keep one agreed snag register, with photographs where useful.

What should be in my handover pack?

We provide as-built information where included, plus certificates and commissioning records. We also include product information, warranties, care instructions and service contacts.

The exact schedule depends on the works we have carried out.

Next We agree the document list with you well before completion.

Will someone show me how to operate the house?

Yes. We arrange demonstrations for heating, cooling, ventilation, controls and any specialist equipment.

Written instructions work well paired with a walkthrough and clear settings.

Next Tell us who will use the systems, and we will schedule training.

What is the difference between defects and maintenance?

Defects obligations relate to our contract and the work we delivered.

Routine servicing, consumables and care are usually separate. Product warranties may carry their own conditions.

Next We confirm the reporting route and maintenance obligations for each system.

How long is the defects period?

The period and obligations that apply are set out in your signed contract.

Do not assume a duration from another project. It is not the same as a manufacturer’s warranty.

Next Ask us for the defect-reporting process and review dates.

What does NU Aftercare cover?

NU Aftercare covers planned maintenance, MEP servicing and reactive repairs. It also covers compliance checks and ongoing property support.

We agree the actual service level for your home before it starts.

Next Ask us for a scope showing included visits, exclusions and response arrangements.

Can NU Aftercare help with a property NU did not build?

Yes. We assess the property, its records and its service requirements before confirming an appointment.

Existing systems and missing maintenance history can mean we need an initial review first.

Next Send us equipment lists, manuals and any known issues.

What should I do if I find a leak or other urgent defect?

For immediate danger, use the appropriate emergency route.

For a defect report, contact your agreed project or aftercare route. Tell us the location, photographs and what has changed. Attendance depends on your service arrangement.

Next Keep your handover contact and emergency information to hand.

How are seasonal adjustments dealt with?

Heating, controls and other systems may need review once you settle in. This applies across the different seasons.

We agree whether follow-up visits and adjustments form part of your appointment.

Next Ask us about a seasonal review and how to log comfort issues.

Do I need servicing to keep warranties valid?

Some warranties require specified maintenance and records.

Check the actual conditions for pumps, plant, waterproofing and specialist installations. Do not assume cover is unconditional.

Next We set up the required servicing schedule from handover.

What records should I keep if I sell the home later?

Keep your permissions, completion and installation records for the work. Add warranties, drawings and servicing information too.

A well-organised property record makes later enquiries easier.

Next Keep a secure digital copy alongside your main property documents.

Can aftercare include small repairs or future upgrades?

Describe the work you need. We confirm suitability, access and the right service route.

A maintenance appointment does not automatically include every future alteration.

Next Ask us for a clearly defined scope for additions or repairs.

How do I plan long-term running costs?

Review servicing, filter changes, consumables and likely replacement access alongside energy use.

The cheapest equipment choice at the start can create different maintenance demands later.

Next Ask us for a practical maintenance schedule and indicative service requirements.

Next step

Ready to talk about handover, defects and aftercare?

Read more about how NU works. Or send us your project.