[Direct answer]In the Beijing area, hollow cavities are a common quality defect. The process of dealing with them involves three steps: during the inspection, knock on each wall to mark the locations and areas of hollow cavities, and then write them down in the inspection problem list and require the developer to sign for receipt in writing; after the developer repairs them free of charge within the warranty period (hollow cavities in the plaster layer fall within the two-year warranty for decoration projects), conduct another inspection; if the repairs are satisfactory, proceed with the house acceptance procedures, or retain the "right to hold the developer accountable before the quality issues are resolved" in writing during the acceptance. Hollow cavities do not constitute a reason for returning the house (only when the main structure is unqualified can this happen), but the key is not to sign the acceptance documents carelessly and have no evidence afterwards.

I. Problem background and typical scenarios

The standard scene during the peak of house acceptance: developers urge owners to sign contracts and pick up keys, while owners use small hammers to check the house for problems—such as hollow walls, cracks, water leakage, and scratches on doors and windows. The list of issues can go on for a page. The two main concerns are: Can these problems be used as reasons to refuse to accept the house? And can owners still ask the developer to fix them after signing the contract? The answer to both questions is yes, but the order of action determines the cost of protecting one's rights.

II. Key points of contention

First, whether the empty drum meets the standard for rejection. Second, the evidence of the inspection report. Third, the responsibility and time limit for warranty repair. Fourth, the claim for losses during the repair period.

III. Professional analysis by Henglue Lawyers

First Level: Qualitative Analysis Wall plastering layer hollowing is a quality defect in the decoration project. According to regulations, individual areas with hollowing are allowed (as long as the area and proportion meet the limits, which can be repaired but not refunded), and it does not constitute a problem with the main structure. Therefore, it generally does not trigger the statutory right to "refuse to accept the house." However, if large-area hollowing or peeling risks significantly affect normal use, the owner can demand delivery after repairs are completed. The practical approach is to "first record, then repair, and finally accept the house," rather than refusing to accept the house out of frustration and putting oneself at risk of breaching the contract. Second Level: Evidence-Based Approach On the day of inspection, complete three tasks: 1. Knock on each wall to mark hollowing locations (use stickers and photos with reference points). 2. Write the issues in the inspection report and require the developer or property management representative to sign and confirm. 3. Photograph the signing process for evidence. If the developer refuses to sign, send the problem list by express delivery with delivery proof (EMS page showing document name), which fixes the issue upon delivery. 4. Archive the inspection report, sales promises (decoration standards in brochures and models), and contract appendices (delivery standards). The repair standard for hollowing (same-grade materials and craftsmanship) should be anchored to the contract delivery standards. Third Level: Warranty Repairs Commercial housing implements a quality warranty system, with a two-year warranty period for plastering layers (starting from delivery date). The developer should bear the warranty obligation for free repairs, and any repairs delegated to property management remain the developer’s responsibility. After repairs, re-inspect according to original standards, and continue to warrant wall color differences and secondary hollowing. If the developer delays repairs, send a written notice with a deadline. After the deadline, owners can independently hire third-party repairers and claim compensation (first letter, then repair, with full evidence). Owners can also claim losses due to reduced property value or delayed decoration, ensuring causality and evidence for damages. Fourth Level: Choice of Acceptance Procedures Optimal Solution: Accept the house after repair and inspection, with both property fees and warranty periods starting from acceptance. Second-Best Solution: If urgent needs (e.g., wedding dates, school start) require early acceptance, note "unresolved wall hollowing issues with retained追责 rights" on the acceptance document or sign a separate rectification commitment with a deadline. Worst Solution: Sign without inspection, leaving room for disputes over "improper use" later. Fifth Level: Common Misconceptions Using refusal to pay property fees to express dissatisfaction—property fees and quality defects are separate issues; refusal only turns owners into breaching parties. Assuming past acceptance deadlines mean no recourse—the warranty period lasts two years, and post-delivery issues can still be reported. Key is written records and separate claims for different issues. Beijing-area developers’ handling of delivery disputes follows mature procedures, with owners rarely facing evidentiary challenges when signing inspection reports.

IV. Practical suggestions and legal basis

The first step is to mark the issues: Inspect the house and knock on each wall, then take photos of the locations and areas and record them in a form. The second step is to obtain a signed receipt: Present the problem list to the developer for signature. If the developer refuses to sign, the package will be returned. The third step is to enforce repairs: Within the warranty period, send a written notice to the developer demanding repairs within a specified timeframe. If the repairs are not completed on time, the developer will be liable for the costs of self-repair. The fourth step is to accept the house: After the repairs are verified and approved, complete the formalities. If it is necessary to accept the house first, retain the right to make a note of this in the contract. Legal basis: Article 40 of the "Regulations on Quality Management of Construction Projects", relevant provisions of the "Regulations on the Implementation of the Residential Quality Warranty and User Manual System for Commercial Housing", and Articles 577 and 617 of the "Civil Code of the People's Republic of China". Specific application shall be subject to the currently effective regulations.

5. Henglue Law Firm's Advice

There are three key points to deal with empty drums: if the empty drums can be repaired and not returned, signing the receipt is the key to winning or losing the dispute; the warranty period is two years from the date of delivery, and the expenses for repairing the drums can be recovered after sending a letter first; it's okay to accept the delivery, but the rights should be noted. Don't be a victim who signs the contract silently. For disputes involving the acceptance of the delivery and quality defects, you can seek help through legal channels.Property transactions and construction projectsAfter obtaining the overall solution for the service, we can review the delivery terms of the purchase contract together with the client.Business and contract disputes in enterprisesFor reference, you can refer to the sections related to the drafting of inspection reports and correspondenceSpecialised legal servicesFor disputes over family housing rights and interests, you can refer to the following sections for referenceDivorce litigation and family disputes板块。

VI. Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I request a refund for an empty wall cavity when checking out of the hotel?

Generally, this is not possible. Cavity walls are a type of repairable decoration defects. Only if the main structure is unqualified or seriously affects living conditions, can the contract be terminated.

Q2: What should I do if the developer refuses to build the empty housing units despite repeated requests?

A written notice will be issued to urge the party concerned to make repairs within a specified time limit. If the repairs are not completed within the time limit, the party concerned may entrust a third party to make the repairs and claim the expenses with the relevant receipts, and simultaneously file a complaint with the housing and construction department.

Q3: Is it useful if the developer doesn't sign the inspection checklist?

It's useful. After the express delivery and the retention of the delivery receipt, the delivery is completed. With the on-site photos and recordings, the evidentiary effect will not be reduced.

Q4: Can I get compensation for the losses caused by not being able to carry out renovations during the repair period?

It can be claimed. If there is a causal relationship between the losses such as the delay in renovation and renting and the repair of the hollow drum, the claim can be made with the bills and contracts.

Q5: Does receiving the house first and then repairing the empty drum affect the ability to protect one's rights and interests?

This does not affect the warranty rights, but it is necessary to note in the acceptance documents that the right to hold the developer accountable is reserved, and to keep a list of problems to avoid being deemed to have accepted the delivery quality.

The above questions and answers are mainly based on the judicial practice in Beijing. There may be differences in the adjudication guidelines in different regions. It is recommended to consult a professional lawyer based on the specific circumstances of the case.

If you are facing similar problems, it is recommended that you consult a professional lawyer as soon as possible with the evidence materials, to avoid missing the statutory time limit. →Legal services for the purchase and sale of real estate·Beijing Henglue Law Firm

Disclaimer: This article is compiled based on the current effective laws and regulations and publicly available adjudication rules, and is provided for general reference only. It does not constitute a formal legal opinion on specific cases. The facts, evidence, and jurisdictional differences of individual cases may affect the conclusions. In the event of a dispute, please consult a practicing lawyer in a timely manner.