{"id":39664,"date":"2025-11-26T20:24:33","date_gmt":"2025-11-27T01:24:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/yannickarseneault.com\/?p=39664"},"modified":"2026-04-29T01:40:05","modified_gmt":"2026-04-29T05:40:05","slug":"when-and-how-to-hand-over-the-keys-to-the-buyer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/yannickarseneault.com\/en\/when-and-how-to-hand-over-the-keys-to-the-buyer\/","title":{"rendered":"When and how to hand over the keys to the buyer"},"content":{"rendered":"

The moment the keys are handed over marks the final step of a real estate transaction, but it often raises many questions: <\/span>when should the keys be handed over, to whom, and under what conditions?<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

In Quebec, the occupancy date, transfer terms, and the notary\u2019s role are not always the same as elsewhere, and a poor understanding can lead to complications for both the seller and the buyer.<\/span><\/p>\n

Before reaching this decisive step, it is essential to understand the rules surrounding the signing of the deed of sale and the occupancy date.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you are preparing to sell your property, take the time to carefully plan each step. Also discover <\/span>the financial mistakes to avoid before buying a home<\/b> to prevent unpleasant surprises on key handover day.<\/span><\/p>\n

When does the key handover take place?<\/b><\/h2>\n

In Quebec, the key handover generally takes place on the occupancy date indicated in the promise to purchase. This date marks the moment when the buyer can officially take possession of the house or condo they are acquiring.<\/span><\/p>\n

In most cases, the handover occurs on the day the deed of sale is signed at the notary\u2019s office. This is when the transaction is finalized, the funds are transferred, and ownership officially changes hands.<\/span><\/p>\n

However, the occupancy date can also be delayed\u2014for example, if the seller needs a few extra days to move\u2014or, in rare cases, moved up if both parties agree in writing.<\/span><\/p>\n

The steps before handing over the keys<\/b><\/h2>\n

Before giving or receiving the keys, certain checks are essential to avoid misunderstandings between the seller and the buyer. These steps ensure a <\/span>transparent real estate transaction<\/b> with no unpleasant surprises.<\/span><\/p>\n

1. Final walkthrough before signing the deed of sale<\/b><\/h3>\n

Before the meeting at the notary\u2019s office, the buyer should always do a final walkthrough of the property. This inspection, often done 24 to 48 hours before the signing, confirms that the home or condo is in the same condition as when the promise to purchase was accepted. It is also an opportunity to check that any agreed-upon repairs were completed and that the home is ready to be occupied.<\/span><\/p>\n

A careful final walkthrough prevents many disputes after the keys are handed over.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. Meter readings and condition of the property<\/b><\/h3>\n

On the day of the key handover, record the electricity, water, and gas meter readings, then take dated photos. These simple proofs help avoid disagreements about consumption or fees between the seller and the buyer.<\/span><\/p>\n

Take advantage of this moment to perform a quick check of the property\u2019s condition, confirming that everything is functional: heating, plumbing, included appliances, etc.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. Insurance before taking possession<\/b><\/h3>\n

Until the notary signing, the seller remains responsible for the property and must keep their home insurance active.<\/span><\/p>\n

Starting on the occupancy date, the buyer must activate their own coverage. It is important to notify your insurer of the exact possession date, whether it is immediate or part of a delayed key handover.<\/span><\/p>\n

If the keys are handed over early, make sure both insurance policies are active to avoid any coverage gaps.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Prepare all keys and access devices<\/b><\/h3>\n

The seller must gather and hand over all keys:<\/span><\/p>\n