What to Expect at Your New Home’s Final Inspection

The last step before closing is your first chance to protect your investment.

Why it matters: A final inspection, also called a walk-through, is your last best chance to catch construction defects or unfinished work before you close on your new home. Small problems now can become big expenses later.

The Final Walk-Through, Explained

Final inspections are often performed a day or two prior to the scheduled closing for your new home. You'll tour the home with your builder (or inspector) to spot flaws, test systems, and verify everything is move-in ready. Bring a checklist, your phone for photos, and lots of questions. Blue painter’s tape is a great way to highlight any concerns that you want to be addressed. Tear off tape and put on or near the area.

Final Inspection Checklist: What to Look For

Surface finishes

• Cracked tiles, missing grout, dents in drywall

• Paint flaws, unfinished trim, missing outlet covers

Doors and windows

• Open and close every door and window

• Look for gaps, locks that don’t latch, or drafts

Floors and ceilings

• Check for uneven flooring, nail pops, or water stains

Plumbing

• Run every faucet and flush toilets

• Check under sinks for leaks

• Test water pressure and hot water function

Electrical

• Flip every light switch

• Test every outlet with a phone charger

• Verify GFCI outlets in kitchens and baths

HVAC

• Confirm heating and cooling systems power on

• Test thermostat functions

• Look for missing filters or disconnected vents

Appliances

• Run dishwashers, stove burners, fans, and laundry machines

• Confirm all included appliances are installed properly

Exterior

• Check gutters, downspouts, grading for drainage

• Look for cracks in driveways or walkways

Common New Construction Issues

Even new homes aren’t flawless. Typical final inspection findings include:

• Paint touch-ups and drywall cracks

• Loose hardware or misaligned doors

• Dripping faucets or wobbly toilets

• HVAC units needing calibration

• Missing screens, damaged landscaping

• Incomplete caulking or trim

Builder vs. Independent Inspections

Builder walk-through: Covers cosmetic and obvious issues. Often uses painter’s tape to mark repairs.

Independent inspector: May uncover hidden problems, including:

• Poor attic ventilation

• Faulty wiring

• Plumbing misalignments

• Improper insulation

Cost comparison: Builder inspections are included. Hiring your own inspector may run $300–$600 but can catch what others miss.

Smart Tips for First-Time Buyers

• Bring blue painter’s tape and mark everything

• Take photos to track what needs fixing

• Request a repair timeline in writing

• Ask who’s completing the work and how to follow up

• Request appointment times for repairs after closing to work with your schedule

• Don’t assume minor flaws will be handled later – get it documented

• Ask for larger issues to be addressed before you close

• Keep a record of all items on your checklist and photos

Key Questions to Ask

• What’s covered under the builder’s warranty?

• When will repairs be completed?

• Can I get a copy of your internal checklist?

• Is this issue cosmetic or functional?

• Who do I contact post-closing for repairs?

After You Move In

Most builders request a follow-up list at 30–90 days. Common items:

• Nail pops

• Creaky floors

• Sticky windows

Also expect a one-year check-in before the builder’s warranty expires. Use that time to report any settling-related defects. Contact your builder with an email or in writing with your concerns so these issues can be resolved. Major structural defects must be addressed right away but are rare for new homes.

Read the Fine Print

Many builders provide a homeowner manual with maintenance tips, warranty coverage, and service contacts. Keep it handy – it can save you time, stress, and money. These guides offer how to advice like changing air filters, lot slope (drainage), warranty process, and seasonal maintenance instructions.

If Repairs Lag

Stay calm, be specific, and document everything. If needed:

• Escalate to a supervisor

• Contact your local HBA, BBB, and/or write reviews online

• For manufacturer defects (like appliances), go straight to the source

• Be clear, calm, and polite with persistence and facts.

Bottom line

The final inspection is your last line of defense before closing. Walk slowly, speak up, document clearly – and don’t be afraid to bring in an expert. Catching issues now protects your time, money, and peace of mind later.