Before you sign to take over the factory from the contractor, remember that MODON's building completion and occupancy certificate requires all construction works to be completed according to the approved drawings, fire-fighting systems to be installed, and a maintenance contract in place. Handover is the last real chance to hold the contractor to repairs; once the final payment is released, every observation becomes a long argument. Many investors rush the handover to start production, then discover a missing certificate or a faulty system that holds up the operating licence. This guide offers a practical factory handover checklist, the difference between provisional and final handover, and what comes after.
The Handover Checklist
1. Conformity
- What was built matches the approved drawings in every discipline.
- Updated as-built drawings. Read: As-built drawings.
- A thorough inspection of floors, frame, facades and roofs.
2. Systems
- Trial operation of electrics, air conditioning and ventilation.
- Testing alarm, fire-fighting systems and pumps. Read: Failing the final test of safety systems.
- Testing generators and standby systems.
3. Documents
- The insulation works completion certificate.
- Safety systems test forms and quantity survey.
- The electrical wiring safety certificate.
- A fire systems maintenance contract with a contractor accredited by civil defense.
- Operation and maintenance manuals and warranties.
Read: Certificates required before factory operation.
4. Observations
A documented snag list with clear repair deadlines, and no final payment until it is closed.
Table: Provisional and Final Handover
| Item | Provisional handover | Final handover |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | When works are complete | After observations are closed and the warranty period ends |
| Observations | Specific and documented with deadlines | Fully closed |
| Payments | Usually with a retention withheld | Retention released |
| Operation | Operating procedures can begin | Full responsibility passes to the owner |
The details are set by the contract. Read: Progress reports and contractor payments.
After Handover
Apply for the building completion and occupancy certificate, followed by the inspection visit. Read: The factory operating licence. Then start a periodic maintenance programme to keep the licence. Read: Renewing the operating licence.
Common Mistakes
- Taking over without the supervisor present.
- Releasing the final payment before observations are closed.
- Accepting systems without actual testing.
- Not receiving as-built drawings and manuals.
- No training of the operating team on the systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between provisional and final handover?
Provisional is when works are complete with specific observations; final is after they are closed and the agreed warranty period ends.
Does the supervisor attend the handover?
Yes, they verify conformity and document observations.
Who trains the operating team?
It is best for the contract to include training by the contractor and system suppliers before handover.
What if the contractor refuses to fix the observations?
Refer to the contract and guarantees, and the supervisor documents it. Read: Engineering reports in disputes.
Can handover be done in stages?
Yes on large projects, provided the boundaries of each stage are clear in the contract.
How Abak Engineering Consultancy Helps
Abak is an accredited engineering office that manages factory handover from contractors: thorough inspection, systems testing, a documented snag list, and making sure the operating documents for MODON are complete. See our industrial project supervision service, or contact us.
Regulatory information is based on the Balady platform and the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing, and procedures may be updated by the competent authority. Last reviewed: October 2026.