Website Launch Ownership Checklist

00. Before You Begin

Use this checklist with your web professional before the site goes live. It works for a new website and for a handoff from a previous provider.

Do not send passwords in the checklist. Record where the account is managed and who controls it. Store passwords and recovery codes in a reputable password manager or another secure system.

01. Domain

• The domain is registered to the business or business owner.
• The registrar account uses an email address the business controls.
• The registrant contact information is accurate.
• The business can sign in without the designer.
• Two-factor authentication is enabled.
• Recovery codes are stored securely.
• Auto-renew is enabled with the business payment method.
• The renewal price and date are recorded.
• The domain is transfer-locked unless a transfer is underway.
• A second calendar reminder is set before expiration.

02. Hosting and Website

• The hosting account belongs to the business.
• The checkout total, plan length, renewal price, and renewal date are recorded.
• The business has a permanent website administrator account.
• Every professional has their own user account or delegated access.
• The website software and important plugins are documented.
• The business can download the website files and database.
• A current backup exists outside the hosting account.
• Someone has confirmed how that backup would be restored.
• SSL is active and the website opens with https.

03. Google and Measurement Accounts

• The business is the Primary Owner of its Google Business Profile.
• The business is a verified owner in Google Search Console.
• The business has Administrator access in Google Analytics.
• The business controls Google Tag Manager when it is used.
• Designers and agencies use their own Google Accounts.
• Former staff and providers have been removed.

04. Files, Licenses, and Recurring Costs

• The final website files or source repository are under client control.
• Build and deployment instructions have been delivered when needed.
• The contract explains ownership of custom design and code.
• Fonts, themes, plugins, stock media, and software licenses are listed.
• Each list entry names the purchaser, account, renewal date, and cost.
• Any agency-owned license has a clear replacement or handoff plan.
• Business email costs and renewal terms are documented separately.

05. Access for Your Web Professional

Use separate access wherever possible.

At Porkbun, an Authorized User can help manage domains and DNS without receiving domain-transfer control. Their access is still broad, so grant it only when needed.

At Hostinger, Account Sharing can limit access to selected services. The invited person cannot change the owner's profile, payment methods, domain contacts, or renewal settings.

In Google Business Profile, the business should remain Primary Owner. A professional normally receives Manager access.

Never send a two-factor authentication code or recovery code to another person. Share a domain transfer code only when you deliberately move the domain to another registrar, and use a secure channel.

06. Launch-Day Record

Create one short handoff document containing:

Keep this document with the business records. Review it after staff changes and at least once a year.

07. Completion Check

The launch is ownership-ready when:

• The business can sign in to every primary account
• The professional can do their work through separate access
• Renewals do not depend on the professional's card
• A backup exists outside the live hosting account
• The exit and handoff process is written down

The goal is not to remove professional help. The goal is to make that help a choice.