Welcome back to The Conveyance Desk.

In Episode 10, we looked at closing day and what happens at the trustee office. Today, we're focusing on the first 90 days after transfer—the period when ownership truly begins.

While most buyers prepare carefully for completion day, many underestimate the administrative steps that follow. A successful transfer is only the start of successful ownership.

The First Few Days

The priority is ensuring utilities and access are transferred correctly.

DEWA should be placed in the new owner's name as soon as possible. Building access cards, parking permits, and community registrations may also need updating. Internet and telecom services often require identity documents and service appointments, so planning ahead can help avoid delays.

Rental Properties and Ejari

If the property will be rented, Ejari registration becomes an important priority.

For properties with existing tenants, the tenancy records may need updating to reflect the new landlord. Prompt registration helps ensure tenancy documentation remains current and enforceable.

Mortgage Follow-Up

For financed purchases, the process does not end when ownership transfers.

Banks may continue issuing documentation, confirming insurance requirements, and setting up payment arrangements for several weeks after completion. New owners should monitor communications carefully and confirm all mortgage-related requirements have been completed.

Community Registration

Owners should notify the building management, master developer, or community management company of the ownership change.

This helps ensure service charge invoices, maintenance notifications, and community communications are directed to the correct person from the start.

Insurance Matters

Insurance should be reviewed immediately after transfer.

While community insurance may cover common areas and structural elements, owners should consider appropriate coverage for their unit, contents, and personal risks. Mortgage providers may also require specific insurance arrangements.

Outstanding Defects and Snagging

Where applicable, any outstanding snagging or defect issues should be reviewed promptly.

Developers often operate within specific reporting and rectification periods, so early action helps preserve any remaining rights and avoids unnecessary future costs.

Organising Ownership Records

Within the first month, owners should ensure they have a complete ownership file, including:

• Title deed
• Sale and purchase documents
• Trustee transfer records
• Mortgage documents (if applicable)
• Insurance certificates
• Ejari records (if leased)
• Community registration confirmations
• Utility transfer confirmations

Keeping both digital and physical copies can save significant time in future transactions.

The 30-Day Review

A simple review after the first month can identify any missing items before they become larger issues.

Check that utilities, community registrations, insurance, tenancy records, and financing arrangements have all been completed correctly.

Key Takeaway

A smooth transfer does not automatically create smooth ownership.

The first 90 days are often where small administrative oversights become larger problems. Owners who plan ahead typically settle into ownership with fewer complications, while those who delay often find themselves dealing with avoidable issues months later.

In the next episode, we'll explore seller-side mortgage transactions, including mortgage releases, bank coordination, and the common causes of delays during the sale process.