Snagging an Accra apartment means inspecting the unit for defects before you accept the keys. Snags are faults in finish, fittings and systems. Record them in writing at handover so the developer fixes them. This guide gives a room-by-room checklist.
Snagging an Accra Apartment: Before the Inspection
Book the inspection for daylight. Bring a torch, a phone charger, a tape measure, a notepad and the signed floor plan and specification from your agreement. Bring a lawyer, a trusted engineer or a professional snagger if you are able. If you live abroad, send a representative with a power of attorney or a clear authority letter. Our power of attorney guide covers the paper.
Entrance and Living Areas
- Doors open, close and lock smoothly
- Walls and ceilings show no cracks, stains or uneven paint
- Floor tiles sit flat with even joints and no hollow sound
- Windows and balcony doors seal and lock
- Sockets and switches work and sit level
- Air conditioner units cool and drain properly
Kitchen
- Cabinet doors align and close fully
- Worktops show no chips
- Taps run and drain, and the pipes under the sink do not leak
- Extractor fan and hob work
- Gas or electric connections are safe and labelled
Bathrooms
- Run each tap, shower and toilet
- Check water pressure and hot water
- Pour water on the floor to confirm the flow to the drain
- Look for gaps in grout and silicone
- Check mirrors, towel rails and ventilation
Bedrooms
- Wardrobes open and hang straight
- Windows and curtain tracks fit
- Lights and sockets work
- Air conditioning reaches each room
Systems and Building
Test the intercom, door entry, smoke alarm and meters. Note the meter readings in writing. Ask for keys, remotes, warranty papers, manuals and the maintenance contact. Check the lift, the corridor and the parking space assigned to you. Our guide to power, water and security in Accra apartments lists what to check in the building.
How to Record Snags
List each fault with the room, a photo and a short description. Both parties sign and date the list. Agree a deadline for repairs in writing. Ask whether the developer holds back any key item until repairs finish. Many sales agreements include a defects period, so check the length of the period and how to claim.
After Handover
Complete the registration of your interest at the Lands Commission with your lawyer. Move utility accounts into your name. Insure the contents. Keep the snag list and the repair confirmations with your title documents. If you let the unit, take dated photos before the tenant moves in.
Common Snags in New Apartments
- Uneven paint and visible patches
- Doors and windows which stick or leak air
- Slow drains and weak water pressure
- Air conditioners which do not cool
- Loose tiles and cracked grout
- Sockets which fail or sit loose
Most snags are small and easy to fix. Record each one so the developer fixes the list before you close the handover.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I pay the final instalment before snagging?
Check your agreement. Many buyers inspect first and settle once the developer signs the snag list. Ask your lawyer to set the order in writing.
How long should I allow for snagging?
Allow a few hours for a studio and longer for larger units. Do not rush the visit.
Who fixes defects after I move in?
The sales and purchase agreement should name the defects period and the process. Report each fault in writing and keep proof of the date.
Talk to Our Team
Regalia by Imaani Homes offers studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom residences and penthouses in Airport Residential, Accra. Studios start from USD 107,000, VAT included. Visit the Regalia page or WhatsApp +233 595 959595.