Karen Schexnayder

Buying a new construction home can be exciting because more than likely you were very involved with the interior selections making the house very personalized. Now you’re ready to move in and all that stands in the way of your homeownership is the pre-settlement walk-through. While your excitement is understandable, the home is yours once you close on your loan, so be sure your expectations have been met. Pay special attention during your walk-through to be sure that the builder has made any changes or repairs indicated in the home inspection and to ascertain that all the required work on your new home has been completed. With respect to inspecting the house, an effective way to handle this is with a checklist. The list should include everything that needs attention, and you and your builder should agree to a timetable for repairs. Grading • Does the ground around the foundation slope away from the house? • Are there signs of erosion? • Is the shrubbery placed at least 2-3 feet from the foundation? Roof • Are the shingles flat and tight? • Is the flashing securely in place? Exterior Appearance • Are the windows and doors sealed and protected by weatherstripping? • Are the trim and fittings tight? Are there any cracks? • Does the paint cover the surface and trim smoothly? Doors and Windows • Are all doors and windows sealed? • Do they open and close easily? • Is the glass properly in place? Is any loose or cracked? Finishes • Is the painting satisfactory in all rooms, closets and stairways? • Did the painters miss any spots? • Are the trim and molding in place? Floors • Is the carpet tight? Do the seams match? • Are wooden floors properly finished? Appliances, Fixtures, Surfaces, Etc. • Do all of the appliances operate properly? • Are all of the appliances the model and color you ordered? • Check all faucets and plumbing fixtures, including toilets and showers, to make sure they operate properly. • Check all electrical fixtures and outlets. • Do the heating, cooling and water heating units operate properly? • If the home has a fireplace, do the draft and damper work? • Are there any nicks, scratches, cracks or burns on any surfaces, including cabinets and countertops? • Test the doorbell. Also test the intercom system, garage door opener and any other optional items. Certificate of Occupancy • Has your local municipality signed off on your house? Some problems may not be readily apparent during the walk-through. Even a professional inspector might miss a few. Most warranties cover any such problems that are the result of faulty workmanship. However, warranties usually exclude problems that result from owner neglect or improper maintenance.