Handover files

The job is nearly finished. Is the file?

The mechanical manual has arrived. The commissioning sheets are missing. The as-built drawing still shows the original route.

A folder full of attachments can hide plenty of unfinished work.

Reviewed 8 September 2026.

A safety file and USB drive being placed into an archive box

Agree what the client needs

Build the list from the contract, specification, package requirements and appointed team’s requests. Confirm the format and the people reviewing each item.

Separate the different records: O&M manuals, as-built information, test results, warranties, safety-file information and any required completion certification.

Where statutory completion certification applies, it is a separate requirement with its own process. Confirm it with the appointed team. Official building-control guidance.

Give every item a useful status

Use a tracker that distinguishes:

  • To be produced: name the supplier and agreed date.
  • Received: check whether the submission is complete.
  • Under review: identify who needs to respond.
  • Returned for correction: state the required change.
  • Accepted: retain the agreed revision and acceptance record.

“Sent” leaves too much open. A supplier may have sent a brochure when the reviewer needs information for the equipment actually installed.

Chase the items affecting the next milestone

Start with information needed for inspections, commissioning, operation or the agreed completion process. Confirm priorities with the client and appointed project team.

Collect package records before subcontractors move on. For an as-built drawing, check that approved changes have been incorporated. For a warranty, check the project, product and relevant dates.

Hand over a file somebody can navigate

Use a clear index and consistent package names. Keep superseded versions out of the accepted set.

Leave a separate list of open items showing their owners and next actions. The person taking over should be able to continue the work without ringing the outgoing manager for every answer.

If the close-out chase is consuming the site team’s time, speak to Projineer about handover assistance.

Take this further with Projineer