After years of planning, building, delays, and decisions, it’s tempting to exhale, pay the final invoice, and call it done. But before you hand over that last 10% of your general contractor’s payment, there’s one final step that protects your investment — and your peace of mind:

The Post-Construction Walkthrough.

Some contractors schedule this automatically. Others… don’t. If yours hasn’t brought it up, now is the time to ask.

This is your chance to flag issues before warranties kick in, contractors disappear, or “I’ll deal with it later” turns into never. Think of it like a final edit before you send the project to print.

What to Bring:

• A fresh pad of Post-it Notes

• A pen or Sharpie

• Your plans + specs (digital or printed)

• Our checklist

• A phone to take photos or video

How to Do the Walkthrough

Before you get started, download our Post-Construction Walkthrough Worksheet to take with you.

1. Go Room by Room — With Post-its in Hand

Start at one end of the house and move room by room. Stick a post-it anywhere you see:

• Dings, chips, scuffs on walls or trim

• Paint touch-ups needed

• Cabinet door that doesn't sit flush

• Tile that’s chipped or grout that’s inconsistent

• Gaps in caulking

• Uneven floors or transitions

Write the issue on the post-it so there’s no confusion later. This visual cue lets the contractor’s team know exactly where to fix without having to track a list.

2. Test Everything

This is where most people skip — but don’t.

• Lights: Turn every one on and off. Check 3-way switches too.

• Appliances: Run the dishwasher, oven, cooktop, washer/dryer, etc.

• HVAC: Turn the heat and AC on — make sure airflow is consistent in all rooms.

• Windows + Doors: Open, close, and lock every single one. Listen for rubbing, sticking, or gaps.

• Plumbing: Run all faucets, check water pressure, and look under sinks for leaks. Flush every toilet.

3. Walk the Perimeter

Go outside and check:

• Exterior finishes: paint, cladding, trim

• Gutters and downspouts

• Garage doors: smooth operation, sensors

• Landscaping damage

• Decks and stairs

• Concrete or pavers for cracks or pooling

What happens if my contractor doesn’t do this?

This is why you hold back the last 10%. Every good general contractor will make sure that once the project is complete, they take the time to walk through the space with you, identify any deficiencies, and make things right. If they don’t offer it, you should request it — and be firm about tying the final payment to the completion of that punch list. It’s a professional, industry-standard step that protects both sides and ensures the job is truly finished.

This isn’t about nitpicking. It’s about protecting your investment.
Most contractors want to deliver a great final product — but even the best crews miss small things. You’re living in the space — you’ll notice the details.

Do the walkthrough slowly. Ask questions. Take notes. And don’t feel pressured to sign off until everything’s complete.

You deserve to move in feeling confident — not wishing you’d said something sooner.