How to Do a New Home Walk Through

When buying a new home, the excitement and anticipation sometimes causes you to overlook problems. The new home walk through is a process that lets you address these problems and allow the builder to do any repairs before closing. Using these guidelines, make a checklist and follow it completely.

Instructions

Exterior

1. Look for proper grading. The ground should slope away from the foundation with no serious erosion. Water the area during the new home walk through to check for pooling water.

2. Inspect masonry for cracks. Siding, trim, and soffit seams should be smooth and even.

3. Check for square and tightly fitting windows. They should have weather stripping and no cracked or chipped glass for a proper seal.

4. Scan the roof using binoculars for flat, tight shingles. Check flashing placement. Inspect gutters and downspouts for any problems. Splash blocks should direct water away from the house.

5. Inspect joists and load bearing columns for any problems and check for proper amount of insulation.

Interior

1. Open and close all windows and doors. There should be no binding and have a good seal when closed.

2. Inspect painted walls for uniform appearance and missed spots. Do the same with trim and look for tight seams and proper caulking.

3. Walk through all rooms, scrutinizing carpet for matching seams. Watch for ridges in vinyl flooring and properly finished wooden floors.

4. See if all appliances are the right model and color. Turn them on and check operation. Inspect counter tops for serious scratches or cracks. Cabinet doors and drawers should open and close smoothly.

5. Run water through the faucets, noticing if hot and cold are on the right sides. Make sure tubs, sinks, showers and toilets drain quickly with no gurgling.

6. Test all electrical outlets--a hairdryer is good for this--intercom systems, garage door openers and doorbells. Make sure there is the right amount of GFCI outlets to avoid shock.

7. Open and close the damper in the fireplace. If it is not working properly, ventilation can be affected.

Attic and Basement

1. Assess the attic and basement for dampness or leaks.

2. Note any significant cracks in floor or foundation walls.

3. Inspect joists and load bearing columns and look for adequate insulation.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that the new home walk through need not be a stressful situation. It is a necessary and beneficial step in the new home construction process.