NovProperty defects and warranty in Cambodia
Defects are easiest to fix before the buyer signs a clean handover acceptance. In Cambodia, the safest approach is document-based: the SPA should explain inspection, defect recording, repair deadlines and what happens if defects remain. Do not assume an international warranty period applies automatically.
Four different defect questions
| Issue | Example | Document to check |
|---|---|---|
| Handover defects | Scratches, leaks, broken fittings, unfinished work | SPA, handover record, defect list |
| Latent defects | Leak or electrical fault discovered later | Warranty clause and notice procedure |
| Common-area defects | Lift, corridor, pool, facade, drainage | Management documents, co-owner rules |
| Appliances/furniture | AC, refrigerator, washer, built-ins | Warranty cards, invoices, supplier documents |
What the SPA should say
The SPA should state how notice of inspection is delivered, how many days the buyer has to inspect, whether a representative or engineer may attend, how defects are recorded, the rectification deadline, whether a second inspection is available and how disagreements are resolved.
A buyer is better protected when final payment is linked to objective conditions: project completion, unit readiness, inspection opportunity, defect-list preparation, readiness for possession and delivery of required documents.
Handover inspection checklist
- Layout, measured area, floor and unit number.
- Floors, walls, ceilings, paint and tile joints.
- Windows, balcony doors, locks and seals.
- Water pressure, drainage, hot water and visible leaks.
- Electrical sockets, lights, panel and switches.
- Air-conditioning units and remote controls.
- Kitchen, sanitary fittings, built-ins and furniture.
- Appliances, warranty cards and serial numbers.
- Utility meters, access cards and keys.
- Balconies, corridor, lift lobby and nearby common areas.
How to record defects
The defect list should be written, dated and supported by photographs or video. Each item should identify location, issue, responsible party and repair deadline. Vague wording such as "minor defects to be fixed later" is weak.
| Good record | Weak record |
|---|---|
| Bedroom window does not close; photo 12; repair by seller by 15 August 2026 | Window issue |
| AC unit in living room not cooling; serial number recorded; supplier to test | AC to check |
| Bathroom drain backs up after 3-minute shower; video attached | Bathroom problem |
Before signing acceptance
Do not sign a defect-free handover acknowledgement before checking water, electricity, air-conditioning, windows, doors, finishes, furniture and appliances. If the developer requires a handover record while defects remain, the document should preserve the defect list and repair obligations.
If the contract requires final payment before handover, it should still preserve an enforceable post-payment repair process. Otherwise the buyer's leverage may drop sharply after funds are released.
Warranty period and notice
This pass did not find an official Cambodia-wide condominium warranty period. Warranty duration, excluded items, notice method, repair deadline and evidence requirements should therefore be read from the SPA, handover record, warranty document and supplier papers.
Separate the developer's responsibility for construction/fit-out from manufacturer warranties for appliances and furniture. Ask who accepts the notice: developer, building manager, contractor, supplier or manufacturer service centre.
Common-area defects
A private unit can look acceptable while the building still has common-area problems: lift reliability, water pressure, drainage, facade issues, corridor finishes, parking or pool defects. These issues can affect rent, resale and daily use, so they should be recorded during handover or building review.
What sources did not confirm
No public Cambodia-wide standard defect-list form, warranty period or appliance-warranty rule was verified in this pass. Treat defects and warranty as document-specific and project-specific.
Preparing for handover? Send the SPA and handover notice to the bot. We'll help turn the inspection into a document checklist before you sign acceptance.
Contact usor on Telegramor take the quiz →Frequently asked questions
Is there a standard Cambodia condo warranty period?
This pass did not verify a Cambodia-wide standard warranty period. The period and procedure should be checked in the SPA, handover record, warranty document and appliance papers.
Should I sign handover if defects remain?
Do not sign a clean defect-free acceptance if defects remain. Record them in writing with photos, repair deadline and responsible party, or make reservations clear in the handover document.
Are appliance warranties the same as developer defects?
No. Built-in works, common areas, furniture and appliances can have different responsible parties and warranty documents.
Sources
- Existing NovAsia SPA source corpus: inspection, defect list, rectification and final-payment conditions.
- Existing NovAsia remote-purchase source corpus: independent handover inspection and written snagging list.
- Existing NovAsia apartment-upkeep source corpus: owner repair reserve and appliance/replacement costs.
- Existing NovAsia registry/process research: completed-property and management document checks.