Understanding the Importance of the Walkthrough
The final walkthrough of a new build home is a critical milestone in the homebuying process—one that ensures the home you’ve invested in is truly move-in ready. This inspection isn’t just a formality; it’s your last chance to walk the property, catch unfinished work, and confirm that everything has been completed according to the contract.
With years of experience in developing new homes across the Carolinas, our team at Itani Development encourages every buyer to come prepared. A structured walkthrough checklist empowers you to evaluate the home objectively—from structural integrity to cosmetic finishes—so you can close with confidence.
Preparing for Your Walkthrough: What You Need to Bring
Before arriving at the property, bring the tools that’ll help you make this walkthrough productive:
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Flashlight: Even brand-new homes can have dimly lit corners or unfinished garages.
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Notebook or checklist: Organize your observations and track any defects.
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Camera or smartphone: Take clear, timestamped photos of anything that needs to be addressed.
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Copy of your contract or spec sheet: Know what was promised—down to appliances, trim details, and finishes.
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A trusted friend or family member: Two sets of eyes are better than one.
Think of this walkthrough as both a quality control check and your final opportunity to hold the builder accountable. Buyers who show up prepared are far more likely to have issues resolved quickly—and completely.
Key Areas to Inspect During the Walkthrough
1. Exterior Inspection
Start with the outside. Look at:
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Grading and drainage: Water should slope away from the foundation.
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Siding and paint: Check for cracks, chips, or uneven application.
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Rooflines and gutters: Ensure clean lines, no sagging, and proper alignment.
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Driveways, patios, and landscaping: Confirm all promised features are installed and complete.
2. Interior Finishes
Walk every room with a critical eye:
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Walls and ceilings: Look for dents, nail pops, uneven paint, or drywall seams.
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Floors: Walk barefoot to feel for dips or bumps. Inspect for scratches or misaligned tiles.
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Trim and moldings: Ensure full coverage and clean caulking around baseboards and windows.
Be sure to open and close every door, cabinet, and drawer. Minor issues here often signal rushed work.
3. Systems Check: Electrical, Plumbing & HVAC
Test and verify:
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Outlets and light switches: Use a simple outlet tester or plug in a phone charger.
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Water fixtures: Check pressure, hot water delivery, and any leaks under sinks.
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Thermostat and HVAC: Test both heating and cooling. Ask when the system was installed and inspected.
Confirm all included appliances are present, correctly installed, and operational. Many appliance warranties begin the day of delivery—ask for all manuals and warranty paperwork.
Finalizing Your Walkthrough: Documenting and Addressing Issues
If you find something—no matter how small—write it down and photograph it. Use room-by-room notes so your builder can act efficiently. Clearly state what’s wrong, where it is, and what needs to be done.
Communicate with your builder in writing whenever possible. Attach your photos, notes, and a copy of the signed walkthrough checklist. This isn’t about being confrontational—it’s about building a clear, respectful record of expectations and resolutions.
Before closing, you may be offered a second walkthrough (sometimes called a “punch list re-check”). Take this seriously. It’s your assurance that all outstanding items have been fixed before you take legal and financial responsibility for the home.