| ✓ | Does the ground around the foundation slope away from the house? |
| ✓ | Make sure the water does not pond in swales. To check, water the areas with a hose, if possible. |
| ✓ | Are there signs of erosion? |
| ✓ | Is the shrubbery placed at least 2-3 feet from the foundation? |
| ✓ | If the house has a basement, are the basement window wells clean and graveled? |
| ✓ | Are the shingles flat and tight? |
| ✓ | Is the flashing securely in place? |
| ✓ | Do the gutters, downspouts and splash blocks direct water away from the house? |
| ✓ | Are the windows and doors sealed and protected by weather-stripping? |
| ✓ | Are the trim and fittings tight? Are there any cracks? |
| ✓ | Does the paint cover the surface and trim smoothly? |
| ✓ | Has landscaping been installed according to the terms of your contract? |
| ✓ | Are all doors and windows sealed? |
| ✓ | Do they open and close easily? |
| ✓ | Is the glass properly in place? Is any loose or cracked? |
| ✓ | Are window screens installed and undamaged? |
| ✓ | Is the painting satisfactory in all rooms, closets and stairways? |
| ✓ | Did the painters miss any spots? |
| ✓ | Are the trim and molding in place? |
| ✓ | Is the carpet tight? Do the seams match? |
| ✓ | Are there any ridges or seam gaps in vinyl tile or linoleum? |
| ✓ | Are ceramic tiles sealed and undamaged? |
| ✓ | Are wooden floors properly finished? |
| ✓ | 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. Bring a hair dryer to test the outlets. |
| ✓ | Do the heating, cooling and water heating units operate properly? Test them to make sure. |
| ✓ | 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. |
| ✓ | Are there indications of dampness or leaks? |
| ✓ | Is there significant cracking in the floors or foundation walls? |
| ✓ | Are there any obvious defects in exposed components, such as floor joists, I-beams, support columns, insulation, heating ducts, plumbing, electrical, etc.? |
| ✓ | Has your local municipality signed off on your house? |
