Post-Handover Support: Ensuring Confidence and Continuity
Post-Handover Support: Ensuring Confidence and Continuity After Project Delivery
Completing a construction project and handing over the keys is a milestone—but it’s not the end of the journey. In fact, for clients, post-handover support is where real value begins. This crucial phase ensures the building operates as intended, issues are promptly addressed, and stakeholders have access to ongoing assistance and expertise.
Let’s explore the importance of post-handover support, what it includes, and how it contributes to long-term building performance and client trust.
What Is Post-Handover Support?
Post-handover support refers to the assistance and services provided by contractors, developers, or project teams after the final handover of a project. It ensures that the client, facility management (FM) teams, and building occupants experience a smooth operational transition.
Post-handover support plays a key role in:
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Addressing early operational issues
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Educating the FM team
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Managing warranties and documentation
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Supporting during the Defect Liability Period (DLP)
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Ensuring sustained building performance
Why Post-Handover Support Matters
Even with thorough building commissioning, minor issues often arise once occupants start using the facility. Without reliable support, these can lead to:
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Operational disruptions
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Frustrated occupants or tenants
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Escalated maintenance costs
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Damaged brand reputation
Professional post-handover support helps protect your project’s performance and your client’s peace of mind.
Key Elements of Post-Handover Support
1. Defect Rectification During DLP
The Defect Liability Period (DLP)—typically 12 to 24 months—covers latent issues that emerge post-handover. During this period, the project team must:
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Respond to client-reported issues
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Inspect and resolve MEP and finishing defects
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Keep a transparent defect log
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Communicate resolution timelines clearly
2. Operational Training and Orientation
Proper building performance depends on well-trained operators. During post-handover:
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FM teams are trained on HVAC, fire systems, elevators, etc.
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Emergency protocols and shutdown procedures are explained
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Manuals and equipment schematics are handed over
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A point-of-contact is designated for ongoing queries
3. Preventive Maintenance Guidance
The handover team should provide a basic preventive maintenance schedule, covering:
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Generator servicing
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HVAC filter changes
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Fire system testing
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Water tank and pump maintenance
This reduces breakdowns and ensures occupancy readiness remains intact long after handover.
4. Post-Handover Site Visits
Scheduled support visits allow your team to monitor system performance, answer FM queries, and catch early issues. These visits build trust and show the client that you’re committed beyond delivery.
5. Documentation and Warranty Management
Ensure that clients receive and understand:
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Warranty certificates for all equipment
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Vendor support contacts
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AMC (Annual Maintenance Contract) options
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As-built drawings and commissioning reports
Digitally storing this data ensures easy access throughout the post-construction phase.
Benefits of Strong Post-Handover Support
✅ Reduced downtime and maintenance calls
✅ Increased client satisfaction and retention
✅ Fewer conflicts during DLP
✅ Improved system performance
✅ Stronger brand reputation
In today’s competitive market, post-handover support is a differentiator that turns one-time clients into long-term partners.
Best Practices for Managing Post-Handover Support
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Create a Post-Handover Support Plan
Include roles, responsibilities, timelines, and escalation points. -
Maintain a Central Defect Log
Use cloud-based tools to track and monitor reported issues. -
Offer AMC Packages
Encourage clients to sign up for ongoing maintenance support after DLP. -
Stay Proactive
Don’t wait for clients to call. Schedule follow-ups 30, 90, and 180 days post-handover. -
Document Everything
Record all actions taken during support to protect both parties and ensure transparency.
AMS India’s Commitment to Post-Handover Excellence
At AMS India, our relationship doesn’t end at handover. We provide robust post-handover support tailored to your project’s needs. From DLP management and FM training to defect resolution and maintenance planning, we ensure every client enjoys peace of mind long after key delivery.
Contact AMS India for reliable, responsive post-handover support that elevates your project’s long-term success.
Government Reference
For post-handover responsibilities and public sector guidelines, refer to the CPWD Manual, India’s leading authority on construction management and project closure.
