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Accepting an Apartment from a Developer in Bishkek: Checklist and Tips 2026

Signing the handover act for an apartment in a new development is one of the most important moments in a transaction. After signing, any defects you have not recorded will have to be fixed at your own expense. Here is how to properly accept an apartment in Bishkek and what goes into a professional inspection checklist.

Why You Should Not Rush to Sign

Developers often pressure buyers: "everyone else has already signed," "come quickly," "the notary is only here today." Do not give in to pressure. By law, you are entitled to inspect the apartment as many times as needed and to demand that defects be fixed before signing the act.

After signing:

  • If a defect was not recorded — proving the developer's fault is extremely difficult
  • The developer is still obliged to carry out warranty repairs, but disputes will be lengthy

What to Bring to the Inspection

  • Torch (to inspect dark corners, recesses, windowsills)
  • Charging device or socket tester
  • Sheet of paper to test for draughts at windows and doors
  • Spirit level — to check walls and floors
  • Camera or phone to document all defects
  • Notepad for notes
  • This checklist (print it out in advance)

Full Apartment Acceptance Checklist

Front Door

  • Door is evenly installed, not warped
  • Locks operate without effort
  • Seal is intact all around the frame
  • No chips, scratches, or dents on the door panel
  • Peephole and handle are installed

Windows and Balcony Doors

  • Glass is intact, no cracks or scratches
  • Frames close tightly, hardware works
  • Draught test: hold a sheet of paper near a closed window — it should not move
  • Windowsills are horizontal (check with spirit level)
  • Window reveals are even, no cracks

Walls

  • No cracks (especially at corners — may indicate settlement)
  • Surface is even (vertical — check with spirit level or plumb line)
  • No damp patches, streaks, or signs of mould
  • Plaster is not flaking (tap the walls)

Ceiling

  • No cracks
  • No signs of leakage (stains, streaks)
  • Height matches the specification (measure in several places)

Floor

  • No dips or squeaking (walk around to check)
  • Screed is level (spirit level)
  • If finish flooring — no chips, scratches, hollow spots under tiles (tap to check)

Plumbing and Bathroom

  • Pipes are connected, no leaks
  • Hot and cold water is supplied
  • Toilet is installed level, flush works
  • Bath / shower tray is intact, no cracks
  • Tap works, no leaks
  • Extractor fan works (hold a sheet of paper near the grille — it should be drawn in)
  • Water meters are installed; record the initial readings

Electrics

  • All sockets work (check with a charger)
  • Light switches work
  • Circuit breakers in the panel are labelled by zone
  • No exposed wires
  • Electrical panel: check for earth connection
  • Electricity meter is installed; record the reading

Heating

  • Radiators are installed (if it is heating season — check the heat output)
  • Pipework has no leaks
  • Thermostatic valves work
  • No rust on joints

Ventilation

  • Ventilation openings in the kitchen and bathroom are not blocked or covered
  • Airflow is present (check with a sheet of paper)

Entrance Area and Common Areas (record separately)

  • Lift works
  • Staircase landing is plastered
  • Post box is present

How to Record Defects

Photograph every defect with a reference to the location (the photo should show which corner/wall it is).

Draw up a defects list — a list of all deficiencies with descriptions and photo references. Hand it to the developer's representative before signing the act.

Example wording:

"In the bedroom on the west wall there is a crack 35 cm long from the ceiling. Photo No. 3. Rectification required before signing the act."

The developer must:

  1. Accept the defects list (sign to confirm receipt)
  2. Remedy the defects within the agreed timeframe (usually 30–45 days)
  3. Invite you to a repeat inspection

If the Developer Pressures You to Sign Immediately

This is a warning sign. Possible responses:

  • "I am entitled to time for inspection. I will be ready to sign once the listed deficiencies have been remedied."
  • Engage an independent construction expert — an inspection costs $50–$150 but saves thousands on repairs.

Developer's Warranty

After signing the act, the developer retains a warranty obligation. The standard period in Kyrgyzstan is 2–5 years (check your agreement).

Under the warranty you can require the rectification of latent defects: cracks, leaks, engineering systems failures.

Important: record all communications with the developer in writing (email, messaging apps with read receipts).

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