A new construction walkthrough is the buyer’s final chance to inspect the property before closing and to confirm the home meets contract specifications.
The walkthrough provides time to verify that agreed repairs and options are complete, that systems and new appliances are in working order, and that cosmetic issues, like a scratch on a floor or a dent in a door, are documented.
The goal is simple: the walkthrough ensures the home you’re purchasing matches expectations on condition and function, not just appearance.
The walkthrough also protects warranty rights. Builder warranties and manufacturer warranties usually require timely notice of defects; documenting items that need to be corrected during the walk-through helps preserve those rights. If anything substantial is off, you’ll have room to negotiate a fix or timeline without rushing.
What Should You Check During a New Construction Walkthrough?
When you step into a newly built home for the walkthrough, it’s your one real chance to slow down and look at the details before closing.
This isn’t just about admiring fresh paint or shiny countertops; it’s about making sure doors open smoothly, faucets run without a drip, and the garage door actually responds to the opener. A walkthrough checklist helps you notice the little things, like a cabinet door that doesn’t sit straight or a floorboard with a scratch, before they become frustrations later.
Taking the time now gives you peace of mind that the home is truly ready for move-in.
Exterior Checklist
- Check grading slopes away from the foundation; no standing water.
- Look for water stains, caulk gaps, or damage on siding and roof edges.
- Open and close all exterior doors and windows; locks and seals should work.
- Test the garage door and opener, including the safety sensor.
- Look over driveways and walkways for cracks.
- Check exterior outlets and hose bibs for power and leaks.
- Verify house numbers are visible from the street.
Interior Checklist
- Open and close every interior door and window.
- Check walls, ceilings, and floors for cracks, scratches, or stains; mark with blue tape.
- Test cabinets, drawers, and shelves for alignment and smooth operation.
- Plug into outlets and test GFCI/AFCI buttons.
- Press test buttons on smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Walk stairs for secure handrails and solid treads.
Systems and Appliances
- Run the heat and AC to be sure the HVAC switches modes.
- Open the panel and confirm breakers are labeled.
- Look around the water heater for drips and check its labels.
- Run dishwasher, oven, range, refrigerator, and laundry hookups.
- Confirm garage door opener reverses with an obstacle.
Plumbing and Bathrooms
- Run all faucets; check hot/cold and drainage.
- Flush each toilet a couple of times and watch for leaks at the base.
- Run the tub and shower to see that water drains well and caulk lines are sealed.
- Turn on multiple fixtures at once to see if pressure holds.
- Test bathroom exhaust fans.
What Are Some Overlooked Details in a New Construction Walkthrough?
Bring a tape measure and your phone. Measure major spaces for furniture fit and take photos of every item that needs to be fixed; photos plus blue tape make a clear punch list.
Review the builder’s earlier punch lists against today’s conditions to ensure repairs have been completed. Ask for warranty booklets, appliance manuals, and a builder or contractor contact list with email and phone for service requests.
Before closing, use your local building department’s online permit portal to confirm “finaled” inspections and that a Certificate of Occupancy (sometimes “CO issued”) is posted for your address; most portals have “Permit Search” and “Inspections” tabs where you can verify status and download PDFs.
Is There a Difference Between a Walkthrough and a Home Inspection?
Yes. A home inspection is an independent evaluation you hire, often done pre-drywall and again at completion, that produces a narrative report with photos.
A final walkthrough is a buyer-led quality check and orientation with the builder to confirm the property is ready for move-in and that repairs that need attention are captured.
The inspection informs the punch list; the walkthrough verifies that items are resolved and that everything in the home functions as expected on the day you take possession.
What Should You Do If You Find Issues During the Walkthrough?
Create a numbered punch list organized by room: identify the item, its location, what needs to be corrected, and whether it affects safety, function, or cosmetics.
Attach time-stamped photos and request a written acknowledgment from the builder that repairs will be completed by a specific date; if a fix can’t be done before closing, ask for a repair timeline or an escrow holdback agreed to in writing.
Coordinate with your real estate agent and, if needed, your attorney. If the issues are significant, consider delaying closing until repairs are complete or documented; remember that you receive the Closing Disclosure three business days in advance (CFPB), which gives you a window to address last-minute changes before you sign.
FAQs About New House Walkthroughs
When should the final walkthrough happen?
Most new construction buyers schedule it within 24–72 hours of closing, so the condition of the property matches what you’ll receive.
If weather prevented earlier tests, like the HVAC system or exterior caulk, ask for a quick recheck on the morning of settlement.
Who should attend the walkthrough?
Home buyers often attend with their real estate agent; some also bring the inspector back for a shorter “re-inspection.”
The builder or site superintendent is typically present to answer questions and note items that need to be corrected.
What should I bring to the new home walkthrough?
Bring a printed walkthrough checklist, blue painter’s tape, a tape measure, a phone for photos and video, a small plug-in outlet tester, and something to wave across the garage door safety beam.
Wear shoes suitable for attic or garage surfaces.
How can I verify permits and the Certificate of Occupancy?
Find your city or county on USA.gov’s local government directory, open the building or development services portal, and search by property address.
Check the “Inspections” or “Permit Details” page for “Finaled,” “Passed–Final,” or “CO Issued,” and download any posted documents for your records.
How do I check smoke and carbon monoxide protection?
CPSC and fire safety guidance recommend alarms on every level and near sleeping areas.
Press and hold the test button on each smoke and carbon monoxide unit, confirm interconnection where installed, and replace batteries on schedule; note any devices that fail to sound so they can be replaced.
Are new appliances covered by the builder’s warranty?
Usually, major appliances carry manufacturer warranties separate from the builder’s coverage. Register model and serial numbers after move-in and keep receipts and warranty terms together; use the builder’s contact list to clarify who handles repairs during the first year.
