Walkthrough Checklist

Use this comprehensive checklist during your final walkthrough to ensure everything is in order before closing. This is your last chance to identify any issues that need to be addressed.

Pre-Walkthrough Preparation

Documents to Bring

Purchase agreement and any amendments
Inspection reports and repair requests
Seller's disclosure statements
Camera or phone for photos
Measuring tape for verification
Flashlight for dark areas
Notepad for notes

Schedule Walkthrough

Schedule with agent 1-2 days before closing
Allow 1-2 hours for thorough inspection
Bring all decision makers (spouse, family)
Check weather - rain may reveal leaks
Plan for daylight - easier to see issues

Exterior Inspection

Roof and Gutters

Roof condition - no missing or damaged shingles
Gutters and downspouts - properly attached and clean
Chimney - no cracks or loose bricks
Skylights - no cracks or leaks
Ventilation - proper attic ventilation

Siding and Trim

Siding condition - no cracks, holes, or damage
Paint condition - no peeling or chipping
Trim and fascia - properly attached
Caulking - around windows and doors
Foundation - no cracks or settling

Windows and Doors

All windows open and close properly
Window screens - present and in good condition
Exterior doors - lock and unlock properly
Door weatherstripping - in good condition
Storm doors/windows - if applicable

Landscaping and Grounds

Lawn condition - as agreed in contract
Trees and shrubs - healthy and maintained
Fencing - in good condition
Driveway - no cracks or damage
Walkways - safe and in good condition

Interior Inspection

Living Areas

Walls - no holes, cracks, or damage
Ceilings - no water stains or cracks
Floors - clean and in good condition
Light fixtures - all working properly
Electrical outlets - all functioning
Windows - clean and operational
Doors - open and close properly

Kitchen

Appliances - all working (if included)
Cabinets - doors and drawers working
Countertops - clean and undamaged
Sink and faucet - working properly
Garbage disposal - functioning
Dishwasher - operational
Refrigerator - working (if included)

Bathrooms

Toilets - flushing properly
Sinks and faucets - working correctly
Tubs and showers - no leaks or damage
Mirrors - clean and undamaged
Ventilation - exhaust fans working
Towel bars - properly installed
Medicine cabinets - functioning

Bedrooms

Closets - doors working properly
Windows - operational and clean
Lighting - all fixtures working
Electrical outlets - functioning
Carpet/flooring - clean and undamaged
Ceiling fans - working (if present)

Basement/Utility Areas

Furnace - working properly
Water heater - functioning correctly
Electrical panel - accessible and labeled
Washer/dryer - working (if included)
Sump pump - operational (if present)
Storage areas - clean and accessible

Systems Testing

Electrical

All lights turn on and off
All outlets are working
GFCI outlets trip and reset properly
Circuit breakers are properly labeled
Smoke detectors are working
Carbon monoxide detectors are working

Plumbing

All faucets work properly
Toilets flush and fill correctly
Water pressure is adequate
Hot water is available
No leaks under sinks or around toilets
Drainage is working properly

Heating and Cooling

Furnace starts and heats properly
Air conditioning works (if present)
Thermostat is functioning
Vents are open and unobstructed
Filters are clean (if accessible)
Humidifier works (if present)

Items Included in Sale

Appliances

Refrigerator - working (if included)
Stove/oven - operational (if included)
Dishwasher - functioning (if included)
Microwave - working (if included)
Washer/dryer - operational (if included)
Garbage disposal - working (if included)

Fixtures and Features

Light fixtures - as specified in contract
Window treatments - if included
Ceiling fans - working (if included)
Security system - functional (if included)
Garage door opener - working (if applicable)
Pool equipment - operational (if applicable)

Cleanliness and Condition

General Cleanliness

Repairs and Maintenance

All agreed repairs have been completed
No new damage since inspection
Maintenance items are addressed
Safety issues are resolved
Code violations are corrected

Final Verification

Documentation

All keys are provided
Garage door openers are provided
Mailbox keys are provided
HOA information is provided
Warranty information is provided
Instruction manuals are provided

Utilities and Services

Utilities are on and working
Internet/cable connections are available
Security system is functional
Sprinkler system works (if present)
Pool/spa is operational (if present)

Red Flags to Watch For

Major Issues

Safety Concerns

Smoke detectors not working
Carbon monoxide detectors missing
Electrical hazards or exposed wiring
Trip hazards or unsafe conditions
Locked doors that should be accessible
Broken glass or sharp edges

What to Do If Issues Are Found

Minor Issues

Document with photos and notes
Discuss with your agent about solutions
Consider if issues affect your decision
Negotiate repairs or credits if needed

Major Issues

Stop the process immediately
Consult with your agent and attorney
Consider delaying closing if necessary
Negotiate repairs or price adjustments
Be prepared to walk away if issues are severe

Final Steps

Before Leaving

Take photos of any issues found
Make detailed notes of problems
Discuss findings with your agent
Decide on next steps for any issues
Confirm closing details with your agent

After Walkthrough

Review findings with your team
Address any issues before closing
Prepare for closing day
Arrange for utilities transfer
Plan your move-in timeline

Download Checklist

Download PDF Version

This checklist is a general guide. Your specific situation may require additional items or considerations.

Remember: This is your last chance to identify issues before closing. Take your time and be thorough!