New Construction Final Walkthrough Checklist: 47 Things to Inspect Before You Close

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The final walkthrough is your last official opportunity to document defects before the builder hands over the keys. Anything you miss becomes your problem to resolve under warranty — which takes more time and effort than catching it at walkthrough. Use this checklist.

Quick Answer

Bring a phone charger, a phone flashlight, your contract's option list, a notepad, and ideally a third-party home inspector you hired independently. The builder's walkthrough agent is helpful but is not your advocate — their goal is to complete the process, not necessarily to find every defect. Spend 2–3 hours minimum. Document everything with photos and a written punch list.

Before You Arrive: What to Bring

• Your purchase agreement and options addendum (to verify all options were installed)
• A phone charger or outlet tester
• Flashlight or phone light
• Notepad and pen (or a notes app)
• Your third-party inspector (worth the $300–$500 to have a professional eye)

Exterior: Work Your Way Around the House

Lot and grading

• Grading slopes away from the foundation (not toward it)
• No standing water or erosion areas
• Driveway is properly graded and crack-free
• Landscaping (if included) is installed per agreement

Exterior surfaces

• Stucco, siding, or cladding has no cracks, gaps, or separations
• Paint is even, no drips, bare spots, or overspray
• All windows and doors are caulked at the perimeter
• Garage door operates properly; safety reverse works

Roof and gutters (binoculars help)

• No visible shingles out of place or flashing gaps
• Gutters are straight, attached properly, and drain away from foundation

Garage

• Outlets work (test with charger)
• EV outlet installed (if selected)
• Garage door opener works on all remotes and keypads
• Door to house has weather seal and fire-rated door if required
• No cracks in slab

Entry and Foyer

• Door hardware works (lock, handle, deadbolt)
• Doorbell works
• Light switches all work
• Flooring consistent and no gaps at transitions

Kitchen

• All appliances operate (run dishwasher, check oven, run disposal)
• Refrigerator ice maker and water line work (if installed)
• Cabinet doors and drawer slides are aligned and close properly
• Countertops are chip-free and seams are tight
• Under-sink plumbing is sealed and no moisture present
• Range hood vents properly

Bathrooms (check all)

• Hot water arrives within reasonable time at all fixtures
• All toilets flush and refill without running
• Shower pan and surround have no grout gaps or cracks
• All faucets drip-free; handles secure
• Exhaust fans work
• Mirror and vanity lighting work
• Caulk at tub/shower is clean and complete

Bedrooms and Living Areas

• All outlets work (test each one)
• All light switches work
• Windows open, close, and lock properly
• Window screens present and undamaged
• Closet doors slide/swing smoothly
• Flooring is consistent, no gaps, squeaks, or soft spots
• Walls are smooth with no visible drywall defects
• Paint is even on all surfaces

HVAC and Mechanical

• HVAC runs in both heating and cooling modes
• Air flows from all registers
• Thermostat is installed and calibrated
• All rooms reach temperature within reasonable time
• Water heater is properly strapped and set
• Tankless water heater (if applicable) has no error codes
• Attic access panel is in place

Punch List Process

At the end of the walkthrough, the builder's rep will create a punch list of items to fix before close (or within a window after close). Get the list in writing, signed by the rep. Clarify: which items must be completed before close vs. within warranty period.

Don't close with unresolved structural or mechanical items. Surface cosmetics can typically be addressed under warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I hire a third-party inspector for a new construction walkthrough?
A: Yes, and you should. Builder reps aren't your advocates. A third-party inspector typically costs $300–$500 and is worth every dollar.

Q: What if I find a defect after closing?
A: Submit a warranty claim immediately and document it. The builder's warranty team is obligated to respond. Keep records of all communications.

Q: Can I refuse to close if punch list items aren't done?
A: Yes, if the items are material defects. Cosmetic items are typically handled via warranty. Your agent should advise on what justifies a closing delay.

Q: How long does a walkthrough take?
A: Plan 2–3 hours for a thorough inspection. Rushing is the main reason buyers miss items.

Q: What's the difference between a walkthrough and a formal home inspection?
A: A formal inspection is done by a licensed third-party inspector before close; the walkthrough is your final review of the finished home. Ideally you have both.

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