Owner Responsibilities After Handover

Owner Responsibilities After Handover: Ensuring Operational Success and Compliance

Once the construction dust settles and the keys are handed over, a new chapter begins—this time, for the owner. While the contractor’s role may diminish after final handover, the owner’s responsibilities grow significantly. From managing operations to ensuring legal compliance, the owner’s active involvement is crucial for maintaining performance, safety, and asset value.

This blog outlines the core owner responsibilities in the post-handover support phase and explains how they connect with facility management, warranties, and regulatory obligations.

What Are Owner Responsibilities After Handover?

Owner responsibilities refer to the tasks, obligations, and roles taken on by the building owner after the project is officially handed over. These duties ensure that the building:

• Functions efficiently

• Complies with local laws and codes

• Maintains safety and hygiene

• Retains its long-term asset value

• Meets the needs of occupants

This is part of the broader post-construction phase, during which ownership and operational control shift from the contractor to the owner.

Key Areas of Owner Responsibility

1. Facility Management Setup

After client takeover, the owner must set up or engage a facility management (FM) team responsible for:

• Operating electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems

• Ensuring cleanliness and sanitation

• Security and access control

• Handling occupant complaints or feedback

• Conducting preventive and corrective maintenance

Choosing a qualified FM partner ensures occupancy readiness and smooth daily operations.

2. Maintenance Obligations

Ongoing building care is one of the most vital owner responsibilities. This includes:

• Adhering to preventive maintenance schedules

• Ensuring periodic inspections (fire safety, lifts, HVAC)

• Managing AMC (Annual Maintenance Contracts)

• Keeping records of maintenance activity

Proper maintenance reduces breakdowns, prevents legal penalties, and enhances tenant satisfaction.

Learn more: AMS India Maintenance Support

3. Warranty Management

Owners must manage all warranties handed over during the building commissioning phase. This involves:

• Tracking warranty periods of assets (HVAC, pumps, electrical panels)

• Filing claims before expiration

• Contacting OEMs or service partners

• Documenting repairs and replacements

Efficient warranty management reduces post-handover costs and extends equipment life.

4. Regulatory Compliance

Owners are legally responsible for ensuring that the building complies with national and local guidelines, including:

• Fire safety NOCs and periodic fire drills

• Elevator inspection and safety certification

• Water and air quality monitoring

• Energy audits and pollution control

• Property tax, electricity, and water billing compliance

Non-compliance can result in heavy fines or license cancellations.

5. Managing Defects During DLP

During the Defect Liability Period (DLP)—usually 12–24 months post-handover—the owner must:

• Monitor and report construction or installation defects

• Coordinate with the contractor for timely rectification

• Keep a defect log or digital ticketing system

• Ensure defect resolution before DLP expiry

This helps avoid long-term performance issues and protects the owner’s investment.

6. Insurance and Risk Management

Owners should secure appropriate insurance coverage for:

• Building structure

• Fire and natural disasters

• Public liability

• Equipment breakdown

• Cybersecurity (for smart buildings)

Having insurance in place post-handover helps mitigate operational and legal risks.

7. Documentation and Records

Maintaining a central repository of key documents is essential:

✅ Occupancy certificate
✅ As-built drawings
✅ Operation & Maintenance manuals
✅ AMC and warranty papers
✅ Snagging and de-snagging reports
✅ Building usage guidelines

These records support efficient management, legal audits, and future renovations or expansions.

Best Practices for Building Owners Post-Handover

✔ Create a transition plan well before the final handover
✔ Appoint a qualified facility manager or FM agency
✔ Set reminders for maintenance, inspections, and warranties
✔ Educate staff on basic building systems and emergency procedures
✔ Review and renew vendor and AMC contracts on time

How AMS India Supports Building Owners

At AMS India, we support owners beyond project completion. Our post-handover support includes:

• Owner onboarding and documentation handover

• FM team orientation and training

• DLP and warranty coordination

• Preventive maintenance planning

• Compliance assistance

Contact AMS India to ensure you’re equipped with the knowledge and tools to manage your asset effectively.

Government Reference

For building ownership guidelines and post-handover obligations, refer to CPWD Guidelines, India’s official authority on public infrastructure and real estate standards.