Bathroom renovation handover: a homeowner’s checklist

Bring the agreed scope and finish references

Check the room when it has been cleaned and is well lit. Bring the quotation, approved selections and any recorded variations. Photograph each snag with enough context to locate it, then add a close-up if needed.

Compare the installed product and layout with the approved information. Natural variation and product tolerances should be considered against the agreed sample and manufacturer guidance; do not assume every difference is a defect or every defect is cosmetic.

Check the visible finish

Ask the contractor to walk the room with you so questions are recorded consistently. Do not dismantle fittings or perform improvised flooding or electrical tests.

• Tiles and surfaces: record visible cracks, chips, staining or unfinished edges.
• Joints and junctions: check for visible gaps or incomplete finishing at corners and fittings.
• Vanity, mirror and accessories: compare the positions and selected finishes with the agreed scope.
• Doors and storage: ask the team to demonstrate normal opening, closing and access.
• Glass and screens: note visible damage and ask for the operating and care instructions.
• Cleaning and protection: identify residue, leftover materials or protection still to be removed.

Ask for a demonstration and the relevant records

Have the responsible contractor demonstrate the fittings, drainage and ventilation as appropriate to the agreed scope. If you see a leak, persistent ponding or another concern, record it and ask the team to investigate. Appearance alone does not establish that the concealed work is satisfactory.

Request the applicable inspection or test records for work that was covered up, together with product references, manuals and agreed warranty information. If a concern involves electrical systems, structure or concealed waterproofing, have the appropriate specialist assess it rather than relying on a photograph.

Close the snag list in writing

A useful snag record contains the room, location, observation, photo, responsible party and target date. Ask how repaired items will be checked and whether adjacent finishes need to be protected or made good.

Review the corrections against the original observation. Keep a final copy of the agreed list and handover records for later maintenance. You can see the actual finished bathroom photographs in our Beach Mansion gallery on the Finishing Works page.