New Home Orientation: Preparation

After I spent the day lamenting about how slowly time was passing before our walk through tomorrow, we ended up getting some super, super exiting news:

We are clear to close!!

No more sending in documentation of every aspect of our entire financial life. No more stressing about what we are spending, and when. No more holding back excitement 'just in case' something gets held up. This is happening! 

Now back to our walk through - we've compiled the following list of things that we know we need to bring & check :

BRING:

• Phone chargers
• Upgrade sheets/pre-construction documents to ensure everything is where it should be
• Level
• Blue tape to mark any mistakes for crew to fix

CHECK:

1. Test the doorbell.
2. Inspect each light fixture to make sure it is fully-installed and that there are no broken parts to the fixture.
3. Turn on each light switch and fixture to test that it works correctly.
4. Plug a phone charger into each electrical outlet to be sure that the outlet functions.
5. Check every faucet to make they turn on and off easily.
6. Run every fixture for five minutes. Check for leaks from the base of the fixture and drips from the faucet.
7. Check countertops for scratches and abrasions.
8. Inspect the front of each cabinet for a smooth finish.
9. Open every cabinet. Look for sturdy hinges and hardware.
10. Pull out all cabinet shelves to ensure they pull smoothly. 
11. Pull out every drawer as far as possible. Be sure each drawer pulls in and out smoothly.
12. Turn on each appliance and make sure that it functions correctly.
1. Ensure refrigerator is making ice/pouring water
2. Turn on garbage disposal.
3. Oven light/broiler
4. Microwave
13. Turn on exhaust fans in kitchen and bathrooms
14. Inspect the bathtub, shower, sink and toilet for chips and cracks.
15. Close the bathtub and sink stopper. Add a couple of inches of water. Wait two to three minutes to be sure the stopper does not leak.
16. Check for toilet paper rolls, towel racks, and curtain rods.
17. Flush every toilet. Check for leaks around the base of the toilet.
18. Sit on the toilet to make sure it is securely fastened to the floor.
19. Check glass to make sure there are no cracks.
20. Open every window to its fullest and then close it tight. Hold a lit match or lighter around the edges of the window. A flickering flame will signal an air leak.
21. Be sure there is a screen tightly installed on every window. Look for holes or tears in the screen.
22. Open and close all doors to their fullest and then close. Look for a smooth operation of the hinge with no dragging at the bottom of the door.
23. Check all closet shelving to ensure it is secure (make sure no shelving in specified places)
24. Make sure all sides of the door are painted, including the tops, bottoms and edges.
25. Check stain on railings, ensure rails are sturdy.
26. Lock and unlock every door. Look for a smooth operation of the lock with no binding.
27. Check the threshold under every door to be sure there is no open space under the door.
28. Check the finish for the desired level of smoothness.
29. Check drywall for visible seams or nail heads.
30. Confirm that paint and varnish colors are correct.
31. Check floor and ceiling moldings. Look for a smooth finish with no protruding nail heads. Check for gaps that may need caulking.
32. Look for broken, chipped or cracked floor and wall tiles. Check for missing grout.
33. Look for scuff marks on hardwood, tile and linoleum flooring.
34. Check carpeted areas. Look for loose fitting carpet at the edges or in the middle of the room.
35. If there is an automatic garage door opener, test the door from the wall switch and the remote control openers. Open the door halfway and then quickly stop the opening. Place a small item like a bucket under the open door and then close the door to test the reversing device. Be sure that the light bulb in the automatic door opener is functioning.
36. Go into attic, ensure no trash or animals are present
37. Check exterior paint for defects. Be sure it is the correct color and that all surfaces are evenly covered.
38. Check to make sure all gutters and downspouts are installed.
39. Be sure there are no cracks in the garage floor, driveway or patio/deck.
40. Check HVAC 
41. Ensure all user manuals are present for appliances

(List adapted from http://mortgage.lovetoknow.com/New_Home_Inspection_Checklist, and other Ryan Homes owners suggestions)