What Is the 30-Day Walkthrough?
Most builders schedule a formal walkthrough with the homeowner within the first 30 days of closing. This is your opportunity to walk through the home together, identify visible defects, and create a written punch list that the builder is obligated to address.
It is also, for many homeowners, the last time they have the builder's full attention for warranty issues.
What to Bring
Come prepared. Bring a notepad, your phone for photos, a flashlight, and a printed copy of any defects you have already noticed since closing. Do not rely on memory.
Walk every room systematically, starting from the top of the house and working down.
**Exterior:** Walk the entire perimeter. Check caulking around windows and doors, grading and drainage away from the foundation, driveway and sidewalk cracks, siding alignment, and roof condition from ground level.
**Garage:** Check the garage door operation, floor cracks, drywall finish, and electrical outlets.
**Kitchen:** Run the faucet at full pressure and check under the sink. Test every outlet, especially GFCIs. Check cabinet alignment, drawer function, and countertop seams.
**Bathrooms:** Test hot water pressure and temperature. Check under vanities for leaks. Inspect tile grout and caulking. Test exhaust fans.
**Bedrooms and living areas:** Look for drywall nail pops, corner bead cracks, paint inconsistencies, and flooring gaps. Test every light switch and outlet.
**HVAC:** Change the filter if it is dirty (document this), and verify the system reaches the set temperature in each zone.
Document Everything in Writing
Do not accept verbal assurances. Everything the builder agrees to fix must be in writing. Most builders will have a walkthrough form — review it before you sign, and add any items they may have missed.
If the builder resists noting something, take a photo and write it in your own notes. You have documentation regardless.
The Punch List Is Not the End
Items on your walkthrough punch list should be completed within 30 to 60 days. If they are not, follow up in writing and create a new deadline. Each communication becomes part of your warranty record.
Your 30-day walkthrough is the beginning of your documentation practice, not a one-time event.
Walk thoroughly. Document everything. Follow up in writing.