What to Check After Contractor Work: Essential Checklist
After contractor work is completed, inspect all work areas systematically, test functionality of installations, verify code compliance, check for proper cleanup, and document any issues before making final payment to ensure quality standards are met.
Why is the final inspection so critical?
The final inspection is your last opportunity to ensure you received the quality work you paid for before releasing final payment. Once you pay in full, your leverage to address issues diminishes significantly. Professional contractors expect and welcome thorough inspections—it's a sign of an informed homeowner, not distrust. This process protects both parties by identifying any oversights while the contractor's tools are still on-site and their crew is available for quick corrections. A systematic inspection also helps you understand your new systems and finishes, ensuring you know how to properly maintain your investment.
How do you conduct a systematic walkthrough?
Start your inspection during daylight hours when natural light reveals details artificial lighting might miss. Move through each affected area methodically:
- Begin with overall visual assessment - step back and look at the big picture for obvious issues like uneven surfaces, color mismatches, or alignment problems
- Move closer to examine details - run your hands along surfaces to feel for smoothness, check joints and seams, look for gaps or irregular spacing
- Test all moving parts - open and close doors, windows, drawers, and cabinets multiple times to ensure smooth operation
- Check vertical and horizontal alignment using a level or smartphone app - walls, shelves, and fixtures should be properly aligned
- Inspect corners and edges carefully - these areas often reveal craftsmanship quality and are prone to shortcuts
- Document everything with photos and notes, even items that look correct, to create a record of completed work
What specific functionality should you test?
Every system and fixture installed should be tested thoroughly before sign-off. For plumbing work, run water at full pressure and check for leaks under sinks and around connections. Test hot water temperature and flow rate. For electrical work, test every switch, outlet, and fixture multiple times. Use a outlet tester to verify proper grounding and polarity. For HVAC work, run systems through complete cycles and check airflow from all vents. New appliances should be tested through their various functions and cycles. Don't assume anything works correctly just because it's new—installation errors can cause immediate or future problems that aren't always visible.
What are the essential inspection checkpoints?
- All work matches the agreed-upon plans and specifications
- Paint coverage is even with no brush marks, drips, or missed spots
- Tile work has consistent spacing and properly sealed grout lines
- Flooring transitions are smooth with no gaps or raised edges
- Cabinet doors and drawers align properly and close completely
- Light fixtures are level and securely mounted
- Plumbing fixtures are properly sealed with no water stains
- Electrical outlets and switches are flush with wall surfaces
- Windows and doors open smoothly and seal properly when closed
- All trim work is properly mitered with no visible nail holes
- Clean up is complete with no debris or damage to surrounding areas
How do you identify potential safety and code issues?
While you're not expected to be a building inspector, certain safety red flags should prompt further investigation. Electrical work should include proper GFCI outlets in bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor locations. All electrical connections should be enclosed in proper junction boxes—never left exposed. Plumbing should drain properly without gurgling sounds or slow drainage. New stairs should have consistent rise and run measurements, and handrails should be securely fastened. If permits were required for your project, ensure all inspections have been completed and approved before final payment. When in doubt, consider hiring an independent inspector for complex projects, especially those involving structural, electrical, or plumbing work.
What cleanup standards should you expect?
Professional contractors include thorough cleanup in their service, but standards can vary significantly. At minimum, all construction debris should be removed from the property, not just moved to a different location. Dust should be cleaned from surfaces, and floors should be swept or vacuumed. Windows that were covered or became dirty during construction should be cleaned. Any protective materials like plastic sheeting or cardboard should be removed. Check that landscaping and outdoor areas haven't been damaged by equipment or debris. If cleanup was specifically included in your contract, don't accept substandard results. A contractor who takes pride in their work will ensure the job site is left clean and ready for you to enjoy your new space.
What red flags indicate potential problems?
Certain warning signs during your inspection may indicate deeper issues that require immediate attention:
- Contractor rushes you through the inspection or discourages thorough examination
- Multiple small details are unfinished or poorly executed, suggesting rushed work
- New work doesn't match existing finishes when continuity was expected
- Tools and materials are packed up before you've completed your inspection
- Contractor deflects questions or makes excuses for obvious defects
- Work area smells of gas, chemicals, or has other concerning odors
- Visible cracks, gaps, or separation in newly completed work
- Electrical outlets or switches spark, or lights flicker when tested
How should you document and communicate issues?
When you identify problems during inspection, document them clearly with photos and written descriptions. Note the specific location and nature of each issue. Communicate findings to your contractor promptly and professionally. Most quality contractors appreciate detailed feedback and will address legitimate concerns quickly. Create a written punch list of items that need attention, and get agreement on timeline for completion. For significant issues, withhold a portion of final payment until corrections are made. Keep all communications in writing, either through email or text messages, to maintain a clear record. Remember that minor touch-ups are normal in construction projects, but major defects or safety issues should be addressed immediately before final payment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I take for the final inspection?
Plan for at least 2-4 hours for a thorough inspection, depending on project scope. Don't rush this critical step. Most professional contractors will schedule adequate time and won't pressure you to hurry through the process.
Should I withhold final payment if I find minor issues?
Yes, it's standard practice to withhold 5-10% of final payment until all punch list items are completed. This protects your interests while maintaining a professional relationship with your contractor for final touch-ups.
What if the contractor refuses to fix identified problems?
Document all issues thoroughly and refer to your contract terms. If the contractor won't address legitimate defects, withhold payment and consider mediation services. Most reputable contractors will work with you to resolve reasonable concerns.
Can I hire an independent inspector for contractor work?
Absolutely. For major projects involving structural, electrical, or plumbing work, an independent inspection can provide professional assessment. This is especially valuable if you're unsure about quality or safety aspects of completed work.
What should I do if I discover problems weeks after completion?
Contact your contractor immediately and refer to warranty terms in your contract. Document new issues with photos and dates. Many quality contractors provide workmanship warranties and will address legitimate problems discovered after completion.
How do I know if the work meets building codes?
If permits were required, ensure all inspections passed before final payment. For unpermitted work, look for obvious safety issues like exposed wiring or improper installations. When in doubt, consult a licensed professional in the relevant trade.
Find Contractors Your Network Already Trusts
Skip the guesswork when choosing your next contractor. Tools like Linked By Six automatically show you which local contractors your friends and colleagues have used and recommend—see trusted connections before you search, so you can focus on quality inspection rather than wondering about reliability.
A thorough post-completion inspection is your most important protection as a homeowner hiring contractors. By systematically checking all work areas, testing functionality, documenting issues, and maintaining professional communication, you ensure you receive the quality results you paid for. Remember that reputable contractors welcome thorough inspections—it's a sign of an informed client who understands the construction process. Take your time, be thorough, and don't release final payment until you're completely satisfied with the work. This attention to detail during the final inspection phase sets the foundation for a positive long-term relationship with quality contractors and protects your investment in your home.