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Preparing for Handover: What Happens in the Final Weeks of a Build

August 20, 2025

As a building project nears completion, things start to feel more polished. Rooms take shape, the finishing touches go in, and everyone gets a sense that the end is in sight. But at MPS, we know the final weeks of a build are some of the most important.

This is where everything comes together, and where every detail counts.

While it may look like the job is done, we’re often working harder than ever behind the scenes. Clients are preparing to move in, expectations are high, and the pressure is on to get everything perfect. Here’s what actually happens in the final stages of a build and why it matters.

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A final push, not a wind-down

Contrary to how it might look, the last few weeks of a build aren’t a wind-down, they’re actualyy a ramp-up! Teams are on-site daily tying up loose ends, coordinating final trades, and making sure every item on the programme is finished to standard.

This is when all the finishing trades are working in close quarters. Decorators, flooring specialists, plumbers, electricians, carpenters - everyone needs access, and everyone has a deadline. Managing that well is a skill in itself.

We take time to sequence it all properly, avoid clashes, and keep things moving at pace without compromising quality.

Snagging is more than just a checklist

Snagging is one of the most important parts of this phase. It’s the process of going through the building in detail to catch and correct any minor issues before handover.

That might mean touching up paintwork, easing doors, sealing joins, testing fixtures, or identifying anything that’s not quite right. We do this with fresh eyes and a critical mindset - looking at the space the way the client will experience it, not just from a technical angle.

We also encourage clients to walk through with us. It gives them confidence, helps manage expectations, and shows that we’re committed to delivering a job that doesn’t just look finished but feels finished too.

Testing everything properly

In the final stages, we test all systems thoroughly. Heating, plumbing, electrics, ventilation — everything needs to be running smoothly.

We also check that all safety measures are in place, paperwork is complete, and warranties are secured. Final cleaning is carried out, and access is cleared to make way for client handover.

It’s not about rushing to the end. It’s about handing over something we can stand behind, knowing that it meets the standard our clients expect from us.

The handover itself

Handover at MPS isn’t just about passing over keys. It’s a full walkthrough. We show clients how systems work, where everything is located, and what documents they’ll need going forward.

We explain how to care for new finishes, how to raise a concern if anything comes up post-handover, and what our aftercare process looks like. It’s a personal, practical handover, one that reflects how invested we are in every job, even once it’s complete.

The final weeks are intense, but they’re also where reputations are built. Clients remember how the handover felt. Whether the job was tidy, well communicated, and handed over with care. Whether small issues were fixed without hassle, or brushed off.

At MPS, we pride ourselves on how we finish a job. Because however long the build has taken, it’s the last few weeks that shape the lasting impression.

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Whether you're envisioning a new home, refurbishing your existing space, or creating inspiring office environments, we're here to exceed your expectations. Contact us today for a consultation and let's build something extraordinary together.

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