As a seasoned construction inspector, I’ve seen it all. And one thing that consistently frustrates me is the disconnect between what a “final walkthrough” should be and what it actually turns out to be.

The Ideal Final Walkthrough:

The final walkthrough is meant to be a celebration. You’ve poured your heart and soul into building your dream home, and now you’re about to step across the threshold for the first time. You expect to see a finished product ready for you to move right in. A clean space, with all the fixtures installed, the paint dry, and the finishing touches complete.

The Reality:

Sadly, this isn’t always the case. Many homeowners find themselves facing a “final walkthrough” that reveals issues like leaks, unfinished work, or missing items. Suddenly, that celebration becomes a stressful negotiation, delaying the move-in and damaging the excitement. The client may have gone from a promised 6 months for completion to 24 months and still not completed at the walkthrough.

What’s the Problem?

The problem lies in the interpretation of “final.” For many builders, the final walkthrough is simply a formality, a tick on the checklist. But for the homeowner, it should be the culmination of a journey, the moment they truly take ownership of their new home.

The Solution?

We need to change the way we think about the final walkthrough. It shouldn’t be a “final” inspection at all but rather a “pre-move-in” inspection. This shift in perspective emphasizes that the house should be ready for occupancy, not just for a cursory glance.

Here’s what that means:

• Clear Communication: Both the builder and homeowner need to agree on a clear definition of “move-in ready.” This should include a detailed checklist of what should be completed and when.
• Realistic Timelines: Give the builder adequate time to address any remaining issues. Don’t expect a perfect house in a day.
• Clear Expectations: The homeowner needs to be aware of the possibility of minor snags, even after the final walkthrough.
• Professional Inspections: Consider hiring a professional inspector to conduct a pre-move-in inspection. They can provide an unbiased assessment and help identify any hidden problems.

Remember, your new home is an investment, and you deserve peace of mind. By raising awareness about the true meaning of the final walkthrough, we can help ensure that every homeowner has a smooth and joyous move-in experience.

Call us today at 270-485-2662/270-702-7804 or www.proviewinspections.info for your new construction inspection needs. Check out our Blog while you are at our site for additional information. #whatsinyourcrawlspace #wehaveyourback #BigCrawler #inspectedonceinspectedright #certifiedhomeinspector #owensborohomeinspector #inspectyourhome #homeinspector #homeinspectors #jagoehomes #thompsonhomes #customhomes #newconstruction

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