Your final walk-through is your last chance to identify problems before you own them. Use this room-by-room checklist to make sure nothing gets missed before you sign the closing documents.
Why the Final Walk-Through Matters
The final walk-through — typically scheduled 24–48 hours before closing — is your last opportunity to inspect the home before it becomes yours. This is not a formality. It's a critical step that can save you thousands of dollars and weeks of frustration.
Many buyers make the mistake of treating the walk-through as a celebration rather than an inspection. They walk through the home emotionally, excited to be closing, and miss issues that a systematic inspection would catch. Don't make that mistake. Bring this checklist, take your time, and document everything you find.
Before You Start
Bring a phone or camera to document any issues. Bring a phone charger to test outlets. Bring a flashlight for closets, attic access, and dark corners. Arrive with enough time to be thorough — a proper walk-through of a new home should take 60–90 minutes minimum.
Request that all utilities be on during the walk-through. You need to test every outlet, every switch, every faucet, and every appliance. If utilities aren't on, reschedule.
Exterior Inspection
Foundation and grading: Walk the perimeter of the home. The ground should slope away from the foundation on all sides. Standing water near the foundation is a serious concern. Look for cracks in the foundation, though hairline cracks in poured concrete are common and typically not structural.
Roof and gutters: If you can safely observe the roof from ground level, look for missing or damaged shingles, improper flashing around chimneys and vents, and gutters that are properly attached and pitched toward downspouts.
Siding, trim, and paint: Look for gaps in siding, missing caulk around windows and doors, and paint that is peeling, bubbling, or missing. These are workmanship issues covered by the builder's 1-year warranty.
Driveway and walkways: Check for cracks, uneven sections, and proper drainage away from the home.
Garage: Test the garage door opener. Check that the door reverses when it encounters an obstruction (a safety requirement). Inspect the floor for cracks and the walls for proper drywall installation.
Interior — Room by Room
Kitchen
Test every burner on the range and the oven. Run the dishwasher through a cycle. Test the garbage disposal. Check that cabinet doors and drawers open and close properly and are properly aligned. Inspect countertops for chips, cracks, or uneven seams. Test every outlet — bring a phone charger. Check that the exhaust fan works. Inspect under the sink for any signs of water damage or improper plumbing connections.
Bathrooms
Run every faucet and check for proper hot and cold water. Flush every toilet and check that it refills properly. Test the shower and tub — check water pressure and drainage. Inspect tile work for cracks, uneven grout lines, and missing caulk at the tub/shower surround. Check that exhaust fans work. Look under sinks for proper plumbing and any signs of moisture.
Bedrooms and Living Areas
Test every light switch and outlet. Check that windows open, close, and lock properly. Inspect window screens. Look for gaps around window and door frames. Check that doors open and close properly without sticking or dragging. Inspect flooring for scratches, gaps, uneven transitions, and squeaks. Check ceiling fans if installed.
HVAC System
Locate the thermostat and set it to both heating and cooling to confirm both modes work. Check that air flows from every register in every room. Locate the air filter and confirm it's been installed. Ask the builder's representative to show you how to operate the system and where the filter is located.
Attic and Crawl Space
If accessible, inspect the attic for proper insulation coverage, ventilation, and any signs of moisture or pest activity. Check that bathroom exhaust fans vent to the exterior (not into the attic). In homes with a crawl space, inspect for proper vapor barrier installation and any signs of moisture.
Creating Your Punch List
Document every issue you find — photograph it and note the location. At the end of the walk-through, review your list with the builder's representative and get their commitment to address each item in writing. Establish a timeline for repairs.
Understand the difference between items that must be addressed before closing and items that can be addressed post-closing under warranty. Structural or safety issues should be resolved before closing. Minor cosmetic items may be addressed post-closing, but get the commitment in writing.
For more guidance on the overall buying process, see our [complete guide to buying a new construction home in Tennessee](/resources/new-home-buying-guide) and our article on [understanding builder warranties](/resources/understanding-builder-warranties).
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I hire an independent inspector for the final walk-through?
Yes, if possible. A licensed home inspector brings systematic training and experience that most buyers lack. Many builders allow independent inspectors at the final walk-through. Even if the builder doesn't require it, it's worth the $300–$500 cost.
What if the builder hasn't fixed items from a previous walk-through?
Do not close until items from previous walk-throughs have been addressed to your satisfaction. Closing transfers responsibility for the home to you, and verbal promises made after closing are difficult to enforce.
Can I delay closing if I find significant issues at the walk-through?
Yes. If you find significant issues at the final walk-through, you have the right to delay closing until they're addressed. Review your contract for the specific process, and consult with a real estate attorney if the builder is uncooperative.
What is a pre-drywall inspection?
A pre-drywall inspection occurs before the drywall is installed, when the framing, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC rough-in are visible. This is an excellent time to hire an independent inspector, as issues that would be hidden by drywall can be identified and corrected at minimal cost.