Key Handover Day

Everything to do on the day you get the keys, and in the first week. Tap each item to mark it done.

Before the Notary Appointment

Prepare these in the days before your transfer appointment.

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Confirm notary appointment time and address
You will receive appointment details from the notary office
Bring valid ID (passport or EU ID card)
Required by law for the notary to verify your identity
Confirm the transfer amount is in your account or arranged with your bank
Your notary will send exact payment instructions a few days before
Review the transfer deed (leveringsakte) draft sent by the notary
Check names, address, price, and any special clauses are correct
Arrange home insurance (opstalverzekering) to start from the transfer date
Required by your mortgage lender. You become responsible for the property from the moment the deed is signed
Plan the final walk-through inspection of the property before signing
Done the morning of transfer or the day before. Check that nothing has been removed and no damage has occurred since your last visit

What happens during the appointment (typically 1 to 2 hours).

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Identity verified by notary
Bring your passport or EU ID card
Sign the transfer deed (leveringsakte)
The notary reads aloud the key clauses. Ask questions before signing if anything is unclear
Sign the mortgage deed (hypotheekakte) if applicable
Registers the lender's claim on the property with the Kadaster
Receive confirmation of Kadaster registration
The notary registers the transfer electronically. You will receive a copy of the deed
Receive the keys from the seller
Keys are typically handed over at the notary after all documents are signed

Do this walk-through immediately after receiving the keys, ideally with the seller or their agent present.

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Check all rooms, walls, and ceilings for new damage
Compare to inspection report and photos from viewings
Test all window and door locks
Note which keys open which locks
Record all meter readings (gas, electricity, water)
Take photos with timestamp. Report to utility suppliers immediately
Check that all agreed fixtures and appliances are present
Cross-reference with the lijst van zaken (inventory list) from the koopakte
Locate the fuse box (meterkast) and main water shutoff
Important to know in an emergency
Test heating, hot water, and any built-in appliances
Receive all documentation (manuals, VvE documents, warranties)

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Register your new address at the municipality (gemeente)
Required by law within 5 days of moving in. Bring your ID and proof of address (deed or utility bill)
Transfer utility contracts (gas, electricity, water) to your name
Contact current suppliers with your meter readings from handover day
Arrange contents insurance (inboedelverzekering)
Covers your furniture and belongings inside the property
Change all locks
You do not know how many copies of the keys exist from previous owners. Standard security practice
Update your address with your employer, bank, and DigiD
Notify the VvE (owners association) of the ownership change if applicable
They will update their records and provide you access to building systems
Set up internet and TV subscription
KPN, Ziggo, or fiber providers. Allow 1-2 weeks for installation