The handover framework
Close the project with the same care you used to start it.
Handover is where the working project becomes a permanent project record. The client should know what is complete, what remains open, where their information lives and who to contact in the future.
01CompleteResolve the agreed design deliverables.
02DocumentKeep final information easy to find.
03TransferGive the client a useful long-term record.
04LearnReview the project before archiving it.
Chapter 01
Define when the project is ready for handover
CHECKConfirm scope, approvals, invoices, procurement status and unresolved items before calling the project complete.
Chapter 02
Build a handover checklist
CHECKCheck every promised deliverable and assign an owner to anything still outstanding.
Chapter 03
Prepare the final drawing set
CHECKIssue the final relevant plans, elevations, sections and details with clear dates and revisions.
Chapter 04
Finalise specifications
CHECKRecord final products, finishes, model references, suppliers and approved substitutions.
Chapter 05
Close the FF&E schedule
CHECKMark delivered, installed, outstanding, damaged and replacement items clearly.
Chapter 06
Close procurement
CHECKReconcile orders, balances, deliveries, returns, damages and unresolved supplier issues.
Chapter 07
Collect warranties + manuals
CHECKOrganise available warranties, appliance manuals, guarantees and specialist instructions.
Chapter 08
Create a maintenance + care record
CHECKStore manufacturer care guidance for specialist surfaces, finishes, textiles and equipment.
Chapter 09
Record paint + finish references
CHECKKeep manufacturer, colour code, sheen and room/location information for future touch-ups.
Chapter 10
Save supplier information
CHECKKeep supplier, product and order references attached to the items used in the project.
Chapter 11
Save the project team
CHECKRecord useful contacts for architects, contractors, joiners, electricians, plumbers and specialists.
Chapter 12
Make future repairs easier
CHECKKeep installer, model, finish and warranty information so the client can act years later.
Chapter 13
Run a final site review
CHECKWalk the project systematically and record incomplete, defective or snagging items.
Chapter 14
Manage the snagging list
CHECKGive every issue a location, owner, status and target resolution date.
Chapter 15
Prepare the client handover meeting
CHECKWalk through the project, explain the archive, review open items and clarify aftercare.
Chapter 16
Close the financial side
CHECKConfirm final design invoices, procurement balances, extras, expenses and unpaid amounts.
Chapter 17
Explain post-handover support
CHECKDefine aftercare, defect reporting, third-party responsibility and future paid design support.
Chapter 18
Archive the project properly
CHECKArchive final drawings, specifications, approvals, records, contacts and commercial files.
Chapter 19
Turn the project into a studio asset
CHECKArrange photography, case studies, testimonials and portfolio use where permission allows.
Chapter 20
Complete the post-project review
CHECKReview hours, profitability, scope creep, delays, suppliers and process improvements.
The final client pack
Four things the client should be able to find later.
01 · Design recordWhat was designed?
Final relevant drawings, specifications, finishes and product references.
02 · ProductsWhat was installed?
Manufacturer, model, supplier, finish and location information.
03 · PeopleWho worked on it?
Useful contacts for contractors, suppliers and specialists.
04 · CareHow is it maintained?
Available warranties, manuals and manufacturer care information.
Before marking complete
Your final closeout check.
01Deliverables
Everything promised is issued or clearly outstanding.
02Money
Invoices, balances and project costs are reconciled.
03Open items
Snagging and procurement issues have owners and status.
04Archive
The client and studio both have a clean permanent record.