The final walk-through is one of the most important steps in the home-building process. After months (or years) of planning, designing, and construction, this is the last opportunity to catch any issues and ensure that your new home is everything you envisioned before taking ownership. During this inspection, attention to detail is essential; knowing what to look for can save you potential frustrations and added costs down the line. Here’s a guide on what to focus on during your final walk-through to make sure your new home meets the highest standards of quality, safety, and functionality.
1. Structural and Finishing Details
Take a close look at the structural and finishing elements of the home to confirm they align with your expectations:
- Walls and Ceilings: Look for any cracks, chips, uneven textures, or discolorations. Paint should be smooth, evenly applied, and free of patches.
- Flooring: Whether it’s tile, hardwood, carpet, or laminate, inspect floors for scratches, stains, or gaps between materials. Walk on all areas to check for creaks or uneven sections.
- Doors and Windows: Open and close each door and window to ensure they’re aligned and lock securely. Check for drafts, as these can indicate gaps or poor insulation.
- Cabinetry and Countertops: Confirm that cabinets open and close smoothly and countertops are installed evenly without gaps. Check for scratches, chips, or missing hardware.
- Trim and Molding: Look at baseboards, crown molding, and other trims for alignment and to ensure there are no gaps, chips, or missing pieces.
2. Mechanical Systems and Appliances
Verify that all mechanical systems and appliances are installed correctly and working as expected:
- HVAC: Turn the heating and air conditioning systems on to confirm they function and that vents are installed in the right places. Check if the thermostat operates accurately.
- Electrical: Test every light switch, power outlet, and ceiling fan to confirm functionality. If dimmer switches or smart features were installed, check that they work as intended.
- Plumbing: Run all faucets and flush each toilet to test water flow and pressure. Check for any leaks under sinks or around faucets, and ensure hot water is available.
- Appliances: Test all installed appliances, such as the refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, washer, and dryer, to ensure they function properly. Make sure all appliance manuals and warranties are provided.
3. Exterior Inspection
The outside of your home is just as important as the interior, so don’t skip these crucial checks:
- Roofing: While you may not be able to inspect the roof closely, visually check for any obvious issues, like missing shingles or uneven areas.
- Siding and Paint: Check the siding for cracks, dents, or inconsistencies. Exterior paint should be even and free from stains or discoloration.
- Walkways and Driveways: Walk around the property to inspect driveways, walkways, and patios for cracks, uneven surfaces, or poor finishing.
- Landscaping and Drainage: Ensure the landscape is sloped to direct water away from the home and that downspouts are correctly positioned to prevent pooling near the foundation.
4. Functionality of Custom Features and Fixtures
If you have any custom elements, this is the time to give them extra scrutiny:
- Built-in Shelving or Storage: Open and close all custom-built cabinets, shelves, or drawers to check for smooth operation.
- Lighting and Plumbing Fixtures: Make sure all fixtures are properly installed, with no loose parts, wobbles, or leaks. For specialty items like chandeliers or high-end faucets, confirm that they match your specifications.
- Smart Home Features: Test any smart home technology, including security systems, cameras, thermostats, or automation features, to ensure functionality and ease of use.
5. Safety Elements and Accessibility
Ensuring your home is safe and accessible for all residents and visitors is essential:
- Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Check that all detectors are installed according to code, with working batteries.
- Stair Railings and Guardrails: If your home has stairs, confirm that railings are secure and meet local code requirements for height and spacing.
- Emergency Exits: Ensure there’s an accessible emergency exit from each level, including egress windows in all bedrooms.
- Accessibility: For families needing wheelchair or handicap accessibility, check that thresholds, doorway widths, and bathroom layouts are functional for accessibility requirements.
6. Documentation and Warranty Verification
Before concluding the walk-through, make sure you receive and understand all warranty information and documentation related to your home:
- Warranties: Collect all warranty information for appliances, HVAC systems, and any other warranted items.
- Maintenance Guidelines: Builders often provide instructions for basic home maintenance. Keep this information for future reference.
- Builder’s Warranty: Many builders offer a limited warranty for any issues that arise post-move-in. Ensure you understand the coverage period, what’s included, and how to report issues.
7. Addressing Any Issues or Concerns
As you conduct the final walk-through, create a list of any items needing correction or attention. A detailed list will help streamline any follow-up process with your builder. For best results:
- Take Photos and Document Findings: Use photos to document any areas needing attention, as this can support any claims.
- Establish a Timeline: Discuss with your builder the timeline for completing any outstanding work, and ensure you have a clear point of contact for follow-up.
Final Thoughts
A thorough final walk-through can make the difference between a smooth move-in experience and unexpected frustrations. By carefully inspecting every aspect of your new home, from structural details to warranties, you can help ensure your home is built to the highest standards and prepared for your family’s enjoyment for years to come.