A final walkthrough is the last scheduled review of your completed home or renovation project before you move in. It allows homeowners to tour the space alongside the builder or contractor, confirm that the work aligns with the plans and expectations, and identify any incomplete or unsatisfactory items.

This is a collaborative moment. After months of making design decisions, implementing updates, and tracking construction progress, the final walkthrough is where everything comes together. It’s your opportunity to ensure your space looks and functions exactly as you envisioned.

What to Expect During a Final Walkthrough 

During the walkthrough, you and your builder will walk through the entire home or renovated space, room by room. The goal is to verify that all items in the contract, design selections, and change orders have been delivered and installed correctly. It’s also your chance to ensure that systems, finishes, and features are clean, functional, and ready for everyday use.

Here’s what a final walkthrough covers:

• Finishes: Walls, ceilings, flooring, cabinetry, countertops, and trim should be free from damage, touch-up paint should be complete, and all surfaces should be clean.
• Fixtures and Hardware: Faucets, handles, lights, and appliances should be installed and working properly.
• Windows and Doors: All should open and close smoothly, lock securely, and be sealed properly. 
• HVAC and Electrical: Heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting, outlets, and switches are tested to ensure functionality.
• Plumbing: Toilets, faucets, tubs, and drains are tested for water pressure and leaks.
• Exterior: Siding, paint, roofing edges, walkways, and grading are reviewed to confirm completion and correct drainage.

The walkthrough also covers items that are not always visible, such as ensuring that attic access is available, filters are installed, and warranties are adequately provided.

The Punch List: Capturing Final Touches

If anything is incomplete, damaged, or not functioning as expected, it goes on a punch list, a checklist of final tasks the builder will address before official turnover. This can include:

• Paint touch-ups
• Cabinet or hardware adjustments
• Replacing chipped tiles or damaged trim 
• Caulking or sealant corrections
• Fixing squeaky doors or loose hinges 

Final Walkthrough vs. Final Inspection

Although they happen around the same time, the final walkthrough and the final inspection serve different purposes:

• A local building official conducts the final inspection to ensure code compliance, safety, and permit closure. 
• The final walkthrough is conducted with you, the client, to verify that the project has been completed to your expectations and contractual scope.
  

Both are critical steps. But the walkthrough is where your voice matters most; it’s your final opportunity to make sure every detail reflects what you signed off on.

When Should the Final Walkthrough Happen?

The final walkthrough takes place after construction is complete but before you take possession of the home or make final payments (in the case of milestone-based contracts). Ideally, it should only be scheduled when: 

• All systems are operational
  
• All inspections have passed
  
• Clean-up is finished
  
• Any previously identified issues have already been addressed

This allows the walkthrough to focus on details, not delays.

At Jackson Carter Design Build, the final walkthrough marks the beginning of your life in a thoughtfully crafted home. We guide you through every detail, from pre-walk prep to on-site orientation and post-move punch list follow-ups, with clarity and care. It’s our way of ensuring your home feels perfect from day one.

Ready to start building your dream home? Book your discovery call with us today!