How to check the Defect Liability Period (DLP) During Property Snagging in Dubai | An Insight by Zia
Learn how to check the Defect Liability Period during property snagging in Dubai. Protect your investment with expert inspections & snag reports from Zia Luxury.
When you purchase a brand-new apartment in Dubai, the excitement of owning a new property is massive. However, before you get comfortable in your dream home, there’s an important phase that you should never ignore: property snagging. It’s the critical step that helps you uncover any hidden construction flaws or system failures.
One of the most important factors to understand during snagging is the Defect Liability Period (DLP). A crucial timeframe that determines when and how construction defects will be fixed by the developer. This post will guide you on how to check the DLP, ensure all issues are addressed in time, and how expert inspections from Zia Luxury Property Observer LLC can help safeguard your investment.
What is the Defect Liability Period (DLP) in Dubai?
In simple terms, the Defect Liability Period is a legally established time period after the property handover during which the developer must repair any defects that arise due to faulty construction or poor materials. In Dubai, this period typically lasts 12 months from the official handover date.
What Is Covered During the DLP?
The DLP covers defects caused by the developer’s negligence or poor workmanship. Some of the most common issues that fall under the DLP include:
- Cracked or hollow tiles
- Plumbing leaks or drainage issues
- Electrical faults (e.g., faulty wiring, lighting)
- AC cooling inefficiencies
- Poorly finished paintwork or wall cracks
- Misaligned doors, windows, or cabinets
It’s necessary to note that wear and tear or damage caused by the homeowner is not covered under the DLP.
Why Property Snagging is Essential During the DLP
Many homeowners mistakenly believe the DLP begins on the day they move in. However, the official start date is based on the handover notice from the developer, not the move-in date or initial visit. Missing this crucial timeline could cost you significant amounts in repairs that should have been addressed by the developer.
Snagging is the process of inspecting your new property for any faults or issues, from minor cosmetic flaws to major structural problems. Here’s why it’s essential:
- Identify Issues Early: Snagging ensures defects are caught before the DLP ends, preventing you from bearing the cost of repairs.
- Document Everything: Professional inspections provide detailed reports (snag reports) that document every issue with photos, technical notes, and descriptions.
- Developers are Bound by the DLP: If you report defects during the DLP, the developer is legally obligated to fix them at no cost to you.
Skipping this step could mean missing out on valuable time to report defects, leading to unnecessary expenses later.
How to Check the DLP During Your Property Snagging Inspection
To ensure you fully benefit from the DLP, follow these steps to confirm the duration, validity, and start date of the period.
A1. Review Your Sales & Purchase Agreement (SPA)
The SPA (Sales & Purchase Agreement) is the basic record that summarizes the terms of your purchase, including the DLP. Make sure to check:
- The DLP duration is specified in the contract.
- The start date of the DLP.
- The developer’s repair responsibilities and obligations under the DLP.
If you’re unsure about the terminology, consider reaching out to us for professional assistance in interpreting the contract.
2. Confirm the Official Handover Date
The DLP begins on the date the handover notice is issued by the developer. This can be confirmed through:
- The handover email from the developer.
- Completion certificate or official papers.
- Acknowledgment form when you accept the keys.
It’s important to keep these documents in case there’s any difference about the start of the DLP.
3. Cross-Check with the Developer
If you have any doubts about the DLP or the start date, always verify it with the developer or property management team. Request written confirmation and keep all communication for your records. Experienced inspectors can also liaise directly with the developer to confirm timelines and guarantee no misconceptions.
How Zia Luxury Property Observer LLC Saves Your DLP Rights
We specialize in ensuring that your snagging inspection is detailed, professional, and in compliance with Dubai’s laws. Here’s how we protect your rights during the DLP:
- Extensive Inspections: Our inspectors don’t just look at surface-level issues. We use advanced tools like thermal cameras to detect moisture, test AC efficiency, inspect concealed plumbing, and check electrical systems for security and functionality.
- Detailed Snag Reports: We provide you with a clear and detailed snag report that lists all defects with corresponding photos and technical analysis. This report serves as official documentation for the developer to make necessary repairs.
- Timely Action: We ensure that your issues are reported before the DLP expires, allowing you to take full advantage of the developer’s obligations.
Typical Defects Found in Dubai Apartments During Snagging
Through our vast experience, we’ve found that the following defects are generally reported during snagging inspections:
- Cracked or uneven tiles
- Water seepage in bathrooms or kitchens
- Improperly aligned windows and doors
- AC inefficiencies or duct leakage
- Faulty kitchen cabinet fittings
- Poor silicone sealing around windows or bathtubs
These defects often go unnoticed unless a professional inspection is carried out. Don’t let minor issues become major headaches down the line.
Protecting Your Investment: What Happens After You Submit Your Snag List?
Once the snagging list is prepared, the next step is submitting it to the developer. The developer is required to fix the defects listed within the DLP period. However, if defects are identified after the DLP expires, the developer is no longer obligated to make the repairs, which is why timely reporting is critical.
Why Choose Zia Luxury Property Observer LLC?
Choosing the right snagging company is crucial to ensuring that your DLP rights are fully protected. At Zia Luxury Property Observer LLC, we:
- Provide expert property inspections tailored to Dubai’s real estate market.
- Use advanced inspection techniques to identify hidden issues.
- Ensure that your snag report is thorough, professional, and accepted by developers.
With over a decade of experience, our team ensures that you don’t miss any important defects that need to be fixed.
Final Checklist: Ensure Your DLP is Fully Protected
Before your DLP expires, ensure that you: ✔ Confirm the official handover date with your developer.
✔ Hire a professional inspection service for a thorough property check.
✔ Submit your snag report to the developer in time.
✔ Follow up on all repairs to ensure they are completed before the DLP ends.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure your property is defect-free and that all issues are fixed at no cost to you.
Contact Zia Luxury Property Observer LLC
If you want to protect your Defect Liability Period and ensure developers fix all defects, we are here to help. Our team of expert inspectors provides comprehensive snagging services throughout Dubai to ensure your property is perfect before your DLP expires.
Let us protect your investment by ensuring your new property is free of defects, so you can enjoy it for years to come.
Common Questions
- What is the Defect Liability Period (DLP) in Dubai?
The DLP is a 12-month period after handover during which the developer must fix construction defects at no cost. - How do I check the start date of the DLP for my property?
Check your Sales & Purchase Agreement (SPA) or the official handover notice from the developer. - What types of defects are covered under the DLP in Dubai?
Common defects include cracked tiles, plumbing leaks, electrical faults, AC issues, and misaligned doors or windows. - How can property snagging help me during the DLP period?
Property snagging identifies defects early, and the snag report ensures the developer fixes them within the DLP. - Can I perform the snagging inspection myself?
It’s better to hire a professional snagging company to ensure nothing is missed. - What happens if defects are found after the DLP expires?
After the DLP ends, the developer is no longer required to fix defects. - How long does a property snagging inspection take?
A snagging inspection typically takes 2-4 hours, depending on the property size. - How do I choose the right snagging company in Dubai?
Choose a company with a good track record, experience in Dubai, and certified inspectors like Zia Luxury Property Observer LLC.
