New Home Turnover? Watch Out for These Red Flags!

It may look picture-perfect — but don't be fooled by surface beauty.

Turnover day is exciting, but it’s also your last chance to catch defects before you sign the Certificate of Acceptance. Some problems hide in plain sight — others are only noticeable if you know what to look for.

Here are the top red flags to watch out for during new home turnover 👇

❌ 1. Hairline Cracks on Walls or Ceilings

They may look small now — but they could indicate poor plastering, thermal movement, or settling issues.

✅ Document and request proper assessment and repair.

❌ 2. Hollow Tiles or Uneven Flooring

Tiles that sound “hollow” when tapped may be poorly bonded and prone to popping off later.

✅ Tap tiles randomly and check for smoothness, especially near edges.

❌ 3. Doors or Windows That Don’t Close Properly

Misaligned doors or stiff windows = poor installation or uneven foundation settling.

✅ Open and close every door/window — they should shut smoothly and lock securely.

❌ 4. Water Leaks or Damp Spots

Damp ceilings, discolored walls, or musty smells could be signs of roof or plumbing leaks.

✅ Check under sinks, behind toilets, and along ceilings for water marks.

❌ 5. Incomplete Fixtures or Missing Deliverables

From towel racks to range hoods — make sure everything promised in your contract is present and installed.

✅ Bring your specs sheet and tick off each item.

❌ 6. Non-Functioning Outlets or Switches

Dead outlets or flickering lights might signal electrical issues or poor wiring.

✅ Test every socket with a charger and switch every light on and off.

❌ 7. No As-Built Plans or Warranties Provided

If the developer can’t provide as-built drawings, warranty documents, or utility plans, that’s a big concern.

✅ Don’t sign until you receive all required turnover documents.

❌ 8. Rushed or Pressured Sign-Off

If you're being rushed to sign the Certificate of Acceptance without enough time to inspect — 🚨 red flag.

✅ Take your time. You have the right to a proper walkthrough and document any issues.

📸 Pro Tip: Bring a checklist, take photos, and don’t be shy to speak up. This is your home — make sure it's turnover-ready!

💬 A clean surface doesn’t always mean quality construction. Spot the red flags early — and save yourself from future stress.

 New Home Turnover? Watch Out for These Red Flags!

#NewHomeTurnover #HomeInspectionTips #TurnoverRedFlags #SmartHomeowners #BuildSmart #WallPro #HouseHandoverChecklist #ConstructionMatters #SafeLiving

Punchlist Walkthrough? Watch Out for These Red Flags!

It’s not just a checklist — it’s your last line of defense before accepting your new home.

The punchlist is your opportunity to identify what’s unfinished, broken, or missing before you sign the turnover papers. But if you’re not careful, you might miss red flags that could turn into costly repairs later.

Here are the most common red flags to watch out for during your punchlist inspection 👇

❌ 1. "Hairline" Cracks Brushed Off as Normal

Not all cracks are harmless. Some indicate foundation settlement or poor plastering.

✅ If it's more than just surface-level, ask for proper evaluation and repair.

❌ 2. Hollow Tiles That Sound "Empty" When Tapped

This means the tiles aren’t bonded well and could pop out over time.

✅ Tap tiles randomly with a coin or knuckle — report any hollow-sounding ones.

❌ 3. Fixtures Installed Loosely or Crooked

From towel racks to cabinet handles — poor installation leads to damage

.✅ Check every hinge, bolt, and bracket. Tight and aligned is the standard.

❌ 4. Poor Drainage or Water Pooling in Wet Areas

Water should flow toward the drain — not pool in corners.

✅ Test the showers and floor drains. Uneven flooring needs to be fixed.

❌ 5. Missing Items Not Listed on the Punchlist

If something is missing (like a range hood, light fixture, or outlet), but not written down, you may not be able to claim it later.

✅ Always list incomplete or missing items on the punchlist form — and get it signed.

❌ 6. Functionality Is Not Tested

If you only "look" at fixtures but don’t test them, you might miss issues like:

• Low water pressure

• Leaky faucets

• Dead outlets

• Loose doorknobs

• ✅ Touch, turn, open, close, and test everything.

❌ 7. You're Told “It Will Be Fixed Later” — Without Documentation

Verbal promises don’t count. If it’s not written on the punchlist, it’s as good as approved.

✅ Insist that all pending repairs are listed, signed, and dated by the developer or contractor.

📸 Pro Tip: Bring your phone, a flashlight, a small tool, and a checklist. Take photos and videos as evidence of defects or missing items.

💬 Your punchlist is your power. Spot red flags now — not after you’ve moved in.

Punchlist Walkthrough? Watch Out for These Red Flags!

#PunchlistTips #NewHomeWalkthrough #ConstructionRedFlags #TurnoverChecklist #SmartHomeowners #HomeInspection101 #WallPro #BuildSmart #HomeDefects #FinalWalkthrough

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!

#PunchlistingTips #NewHomeRedFlags #TurnoverChecklist #SmartHomeowners #BuildSmart #WallPro #ConstructionDefects #FinalWalkthrough #HomeInspection101