Walk-through checklist
Morris Digital Works Wire Service

From the initial tour to the final walk-through before going to settlement, make sure you are attentive to detail and ask a lot of questions. It is also wise to have the heating, plumbing and electrical system inspected by professionals.

Below is a checklist that should help you in your final walk-through. Take the time to make your own checklist of items for inspection during the walk-through. By following your own checklist, you should be able to correct any errors before you move in.

 

Roof structures:
• Are the shingles flat and tight?

 

Exterior appearance:
• Are all windows and doors sealed and protected by weather-stripping?

• Do gutters, down-spouts and splash blocks drain away from the house?

• Are trim and fittings tight?

• Is trim wood rotten or splitting?

• Are there cracks in the wood, brick, etc.?

• Is the yard and landscaping in good condition?

• Erosion problems?

• Is the fence in good condition?

• Are outlying buildings (sheds, detached garages) in good shape?

• Does the foundation have cracks and loose brickwork or mortar?

 

Doors/Windows:
• Are all doors and windows properly sealed, and do they operate easily?

• If it's a brand new home, are the doors and windows the type specified in the contract?

• Is all glass in place, and not loose or cracked?

 

Finishes:
• Is painting satisfactory in all rooms, including closets and stairways?

• Is trim and molding in place?

• Do carpet seams match?

• Are there any ridges or seam gaps in the vinyl tile or linoleum?

• Do floors squeak?

• Are the banisters and rails secure and sturdy?

 

Appliances:
• Do the appliances operate properly?

• Do faucets and other plumbing fixtures, including toilets and showers, work properly?

• Do all electrical outlets and fixtures work properly?

• Do the smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors function properly?

• Do the furnace and air conditioner operate properly?

 

Other:
• Do all lights work?

• Are there cracks in basement walls, or any signs of flooding?

• Are all stairs safe and sturdy?

• Is wallpaper peeling? Are there cracks or holes in walls?

• Are there loose tiles in the kitchen or bathrooms?

• Is there any asbestos or lead paint (older houses)?

• Are there signs of termites, ants or other insects.

• Is flashing securely in place?

• Have any renovations been made to the house? By who?

 

Final inspection/certificate of occupancy (for new homes):
• Has your local municipality signed off on your house?