Final Home Inspection Checklist: Tips for a Smooth Closing

Getting ready to close on a new house? A final home inspection checklist is one of the last steps of the home-building process. It ensures everything is in place, safe, and ready for you to move in. You want to catch any issues before they become bigger problems. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to prepare for your final home inspection.

The Importance of Final Home Inspections

A final home inspection is your chance to review the finished home. It covers all the major systems and details. You check everything from the plumbing to the paint. This inspection happens before closing, ensuring the home is move-in ready.

The final home inspection protects your investment. You can identify issues that need fixing. It also ensures the builder has met the contract terms. With a thorough final home inspection, you avoid unpleasant surprises after moving in and have a successful build.

Preparing for Your Final Home Inspection

Preparation is key. A qualified builder should use a daily checklist to help avoid delays and ensure the inspection goes smoothly, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t come with your own checklist prepared. Here's a step-by-step final home inspection checklist to guide you.

Step 1: Review the Contract and Specifications

Before the inspection, review your contract. Make sure the builder has completed all agreed-upon work. Check the specifications, including materials and finishes. If something doesn't match, you'll want to address it during the inspection.

Check every detail of the work. Ensure the materials used are what you selected. Verify that the finishes match your expectations. Any discrepancies should be noted.

Step 2: Conduct a Preliminary Walkthrough

Do a preliminary walkthrough before the official inspection. This allows you to spot any obvious issues. Look for things like incomplete work, defects, or damage. Make a list of these items to address them during the final inspection. During the walkthrough, inspect every room. Look for scratches, dents, or other damage.

Inspect Interior Details

During the final inspection, pay close attention to interior details. These small details can make a big difference in the overall quality of your home. Inspect the paint job. Look for any uneven areas or missed spots. Check the trim for gaps or imperfections.

Examine the flooring in every room. Look for scratches, gaps, or other defects. Ensure that all flooring is installed correctly. Open and close every door and window. Ensure they operate smoothly. Check that locks and latches work properly.

Verify Exterior Features

The exterior of your home is just as important as the interior. Make sure all exterior features are completed and in good condition. Check the siding for any damage or defects. Ensure the paint is even and free of streaks.

Look at the roof from the ground. Ensure there are no missing shingles or damage. Check that gutters and downspouts are securely attached. Inspect the landscaping around your home. Ensure that grass, plants, and trees are healthy. Check that drainage systems are in place and working properly.

Test Mechanical Systems

Mechanical systems are necessary for your home to function well. Make sure they are all in good working order. Turn on the heating and cooling systems. Make sure they operate quietly and efficiently. Check that the thermostat is working correctly.

Run water in every sink, bathtub, and shower. Check for leaks or slow drains. Flush all toilets to ensure they work properly. Turn on lights and test outlets in every room. Ensure that all switches work. Check that the circuit breaker is properly labeled.

Step 3: Address Issues with the Builder

If you find any issues during the final home inspection, address them with the builder. Discuss how and when these items will be fixed. Make sure the builder provides a timeline for the repairs. Work with the builder to determine how repairs will be handled. Be clear about your expectations and ensure that all agreements are in writing.

Step 4: Prepare for the Final Walkthrough Before Closing

Before you close on the home, do a final walkthrough. This ensures that all repairs have been made. It also confirms that the home is ready for you to move in. Recheck all repairs. Ensure that everything is in order. If any issues remain, address them immediately.

The home should be clean and ready for move-in during this phase. Check that all utilities are connected and working. Ensure that all keys, manuals, and warranties are provided.

Make Sure to Document Everything

During the final home inspection, take detailed notes. Document any issues you find. Take photos to support your notes. This documentation will be important if you need to negotiate repairs with the builder.

Write down every issue you find. Be specific about what needs to be fixed. This list will guide the builder in making necessary repairs. Take a photo of any defects or areas of concern. These photos provide visual evidence of the issues. They can also be helpful for future reference.

Trust Builders Who Use Home Builder Solution

Home Builder Solution is your construction company’s ally during building, complete with daily task management features, including checklists. This helps streamline the final inspection and make it more efficient, as well as give companies documentation of every step of the process.

Customize Your Final Home Inspection Checklist

The app's daily checklist feature keeps builders organized. It ensures that all tasks are completed on time. When contractors use the app, they stay on top of the construction process. This makes the final home inspection smoother and less stressful.

The Home Builder Solution app also allows you, as the home owner, to access documentation that you’ll need every step of the way through a comprehensive customer portal.

Track Progress in Real-Time

With the Home Builder Solution app, you can track the progress of your final home inspection in real time. This keeps you informed of any issues or delays. It also helps the company stay on schedule.

Streamline Your Final Home Inspection

The final home inspection is a critical step in the home-building process. With a final home inspection checklist, you ensure that your new home is ready for move-in. Home Builder Solution is an invaluable tool in this process. It helps the company and you stay organized, track progress, and ensure that all tasks are completed on time.

Ready to streamline your final home inspection? Home Builder Solution is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a free live demo. Let us show you how our app can make your home-building process smoother and more efficient. Don't wait — schedule your demo now!