Punchlisting? Don’t Ignore These Red Flags!

Your last inspection before turnover isn’t just a formality — it’s your chance to speak up.

The punchlisting stage is your final walkthrough before signing off on your new home. While it may look move-in ready, hidden issues can cost you time, money, and stress later on.

Here are the most common red flags to watch out for during punchlisting 👇

❌ 1. Cosmetic Cover-Ups Over Real Defects

Fresh paint can hide cracks, moisture stains, or wall imperfections.

✅ Run your hand along walls. Look for bumps, uneven finishes, or patched spots.

❌ 2. Unfinished or Poorly Installed Fixtures

Misaligned doors, wobbly towel racks, loose faucets — they’re not just annoying, they’re signs of sloppy work.

✅ Everything should be secure, aligned, and installed cleanly.

❌ 3. “It’s Normal” Excuses

Hairline cracks, water stains, or uneven tiles often get brushed off as "standard."

✅ Don't accept vague explanations. Ask for technical assessment or written assurance.

❌ 4. Hollow or Uneven Flooring

Tapping tiles should sound solid. Hollow spots mean weak bonding that could result in tile popping.

✅ Check for unevenness, gaps, or cracked grout lines.

❌ 5. Poor Drainage in Bathrooms and Balconies

Standing water or slow-draining floors lead to long-term water damage.

✅ Pour water and observe — it should flow easily to the drain.

❌ 6. No Documentation for Pending Repairs

If an issue is “to be fixed later,” it must be written on the punchlist and signed.

✅ Verbal promises don’t count. Everything must be documented.

❌ 7. Incomplete Deliverables

Check that everything listed in your contract is delivered — from door handles to lighting, cabinets, and appliances

.✅ Bring your specs sheet and cross-check item by item.

❌ 8. Rushed Walkthrough

If you’re being hurried through the inspection — 🚨 red flag.

✅ Take your time. Inspect room by room. Ask questions. This is your right as a buyer.

📸 Pro Tip: Bring a checklist, flashlight, phone camera, and even a small tool to tap tiles and test outlets.

💬 Don’t treat punchlisting as a formality — it’s your last chance to catch hidden problems. Inspect carefully, protect your investment.

Punchlisting? Don’t Ignore These Red Flags!

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Hydrotesting Red Flags You Shouldn’t Ignore!

Leaks today are better than leaks tomorrow — if you catch them in time.

Hydrotesting is a crucial step in testing your new home’s plumbing system. It involves running water through pipes under pressure to check for leaks, weak points, or installation defects before finishes are applied. But not all hydrotests are done properly.

Here are the common red flags you need to watch for during hydrotesting 👇

❌ 1. Skipping the Test Entirely

Some contractors skip hydrotesting or claim it's unnecessary to save time.

✅ Always insist on a hydrotest — it’s your only assurance against future leaks behind the wall.

❌ 2. No Documentation or Test Report

If there’s no written test report or proof of test results, you have no official record.

✅ Request a signed copy of the hydrotest report, including date, pressure used, and inspector's name.

❌ 3. Short Testing Duration

Proper hydrotesting should last at least 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the system.

✅ Rushing the test may hide slow leaks or pressure losses.

❌ 4. No Pressure Gauge Monitoring

Without using a pressure gauge, there’s no way to detect minor pressure drops.

✅ Ensure a gauge is installed and monitored throughout the test.

❌ 5. Testing Only Cold Water Lines

Some contractors only test the cold water line and skip the hot water system.

✅ All lines must be tested, including water heaters and exposed PPR/PVC joints.

❌ 6. No Visible Water or Pressure Loss — But Signs of Dampness

If there’s a musty smell, water stains, or damp patches — something is wrong.

✅ Look for soggy concrete, wet insulation, or water pooling near test points.

❌ 7. Leaks That Are “Temporarily Sealed”

If leaks are sealed with tape, glue, or silicone during the test — that’s a shortcut.

✅ Demand permanent fixes, like replacing faulty pipes or fittings.

📸 Pro Tip: Be present during the test, and take photos of the pressure gauge and exposed piping. Don’t rely solely on the contractor’s word.

💬 Water is your home’s worst enemy when hidden. A proper hydrotest today saves thousands in future repairs.

Hydrotesting Red Flags You Shouldn’t Ignore!

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🏡 New Home Turnover? Don’t Miss These 10 Crucial Checks!

Before you accept the keys, inspect with confidence.

Getting the keys to your brand-new home is exciting — but before you celebrate, make sure everything is in top shape. Here's your quick turnover checklist to avoid future headaches:

✅ 10 Things to Check During New Home Turnover

1. Structural IntegrityInspect walls, ceilings, beams, and columns for cracks, leaks, or uneven surfaces.

2. Doors and WindowsOpen and close all doors and windows. They should align properly, lock securely, and be free of drafts.

3. Flooring and TilesCheck for loose tiles, uneven surfaces, or grout gaps. Listen for hollow sounds — a sign of poor bonding.

4. Plumbing SystemTurn on all faucets and showers. Look for leaks, test drainage, and inspect toilet flush systems.

5. Electrical Outlets & LightsTest every switch, socket, and outlet. Make sure lights work and breakers are labeled correctly.

6. Paint FinishScan for uneven paint, bubbles, or peeling. Walls should be clean, smooth, and fully coated.

7. Cabinets & FixturesCheck hinges, handles, and alignment on all cabinets, drawers, and built-in storage.

8. Roof and CeilingLook for water stains, sagging, or poor sealing, especially near roof joints and corners.

9. Ventilation & Exhaust FansEnsure all fans and vents are functioning, especially in bathrooms and kitchens.

10. Water Pressure & HeaterTest both cold and hot water pressure in all faucets. Check if water heaters are installed and working properly.

🔍 Bonus Tip:Document everything with photos or videos. If something seems off, request immediate corrections before signing off.

🛠️ A careful inspection today can save you thousands tomorrow.

New Home Turnover? Don’t Miss These 10 Crucial Checks!

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