Closing on a brand-new Cassedale home is exciting, but the final walkthrough is where you make sure everything matches your contract and is ready for move-in. You have put time and money into this build, and you deserve a smooth closing without surprises. In this guide, you will get a practical, step-by-step checklist tailored to 27534, how to create a punch list that gets action, and ways to keep your closing on track. Let’s dive in.
Final walkthrough basics
Your final walkthrough verifies the home was completed per plans, major systems work, and you have the documents you need for closing and occupancy. Most new-construction walkthroughs happen 24 to 72 hours before closing, sometimes the same day. That timing helps you catch last-minute issues while giving the builder a chance to respond.
Plan to attend with your agent and the builder’s representative or superintendent. If you cannot attend, arrange for your agent or a trusted inspector to walk the home and report back. In all cases, arrive with a clear checklist and a plan to document everything.
How to prepare
- Schedule a short pre-walkthrough call with your agent to set priorities and confirm who will attend.
- Bring a printed checklist, phone for photos and short videos, flashlight, notepad, pen, tape measure, and a small step stool.
- Optional but helpful: an outlet tester or simple voltage tester.
- Confirm utilities are active for testing water, power, and HVAC. If anything is not active, note it and reschedule testing as needed.
The Cassedale final walkthrough checklist
Safety and code first
Address safety and code items before closing or require a written plan with deadlines.
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors installed, powered, and tested. Interconnected if required.
- Electrical panel labeled correctly, no exposed wiring, GFCI and AFCI protection where required. Test GFCIs.
- HVAC heating and cooling operate in all zones. Thermostats respond, filters installed, vents balanced.
- Plumbing shut-off valve located and operable. No leaks at fixtures, working hot water at every fixture, proper drainage.
- Roofing, flashing, and exterior penetrations sealed against water intrusion.
- Garage door sensors and auto-reverse safety feature tested.
- Certificate of Occupancy confirmed. In 27534 this is typically issued by the City of Goldsboro or Wayne County inspections, depending on jurisdiction. Ask the builder for proof of final inspections.
Major systems and appliances
- Water heater produces hot water, no leaks, temperature and pressure relief valve and discharge piping present where required.
- Run HVAC in both heat and cool. Listen for unusual noises and confirm reasonable temperature change.
- Test every appliance: oven, cooktop, microwave, dishwasher, refrigerator, disposal. If possible, run a short cycle.
- Check every light switch and fixture, interior and exterior. Test outlets, including outdoor receptacles.
- Open and close every window and door. Confirm locks, latches, seals, and screens.
- Verify garage opener operation, remote and keypad (if installed), and auto-reverse.
Interior finishes and cosmetics
Photograph cosmetic items so expectations are clear.
- Floors: gaps, scratches, grout consistency on tile.
- Walls and ceilings: paint touch-ups, nail pops, small cracks, consistent texture.
- Trim and cabinets: alignment, secure hardware, soft-close function, caulking and filler where needed.
- Countertops and sinks: chips, seam quality, caulk at backsplash, faucet function.
- Tile and grout: uniform lines, no missing tiles, no grout haze.
- Stairs and railings: sturdy and properly secured.
Exterior, site, and drainage
- Lot grading slopes away from the foundation. After rain, check for standing water if you can.
- Gutters and downspouts attached and direct water away from the home.
- Driveway and walks free of cracks or trip hazards.
- Siding, brick, or other cladding sealed at joints, especially around windows and doors.
- Decks, patios, and fencing secure. Railings firmly fastened.
- Landscaping and sodding completed or scheduled. Seasonal items may be deferred; capture them with deadlines.
Systems and utility access
- Locate main water shutoff, gas shutoff if applicable, HVAC service switch, electrical meter, and water meter.
- Confirm utility accounts are active or scheduled for activation.
- If the home uses septic rather than municipal sewer, request permit and inspection info.
- If irrigation is installed, test each zone and note coverage gaps.
Documents to collect or confirm
Before or at closing, confirm you will receive the following. If anything will arrive later, get it in writing.
- Builder workmanship, systems, and structural warranty details, including start dates and coverage.
- Manufacturer warranties for appliances, windows, roofing, and HVAC, plus manuals.
- As-built plans and system locations where available.
- Certificate of Occupancy and final inspection releases for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
- Lien waivers from builder and subcontractors if required in your closing process.
- Builder contact list, warranty portal or email, and emergency numbers.
- HOA documents and community rules if applicable.
- Keys, garage remotes, keypad codes, and mailbox keys.
Create a punch list that gets results
A strong punch list keeps everyone aligned and accountable.
- Write items clearly with location and a brief description. Attach photos or short video.
- Prioritize: P1 safety and code, P2 major systems, P3 cosmetic finishes.
- Date the list and send it to the builder’s rep, your agent, and the closing/title contact.
- Ask for a firm timeline and who is responsible for each item.
Example entry: “Primary bath, left vanity: slow-draining sink. Video attached. P2.”
Simple email template you can use
Subject: Cassedale Final Walkthrough Punch List – [Property Address] – [Date]
Hello [Builder Rep Name],
Thank you for today’s walkthrough. Attached is our dated punch list with photos/videos. Please reply with your repair schedule, responsible contacts, and target completion dates. Safety and code items are marked P1 and we request completion before occupancy or written confirmation of remedy.
We appreciate your prompt response so closing stays on track.
Best, [Your Name] [Phone]
Keep closing on track
You can protect your interests and still move forward.
- Require completion of P1 safety and code items and confirmation of the Certificate of Occupancy before move-in when possible.
- For noncritical items, use a written post-closing repair agreement with dates and remedies if missed.
- Ask your title company or closing attorney about escrow holdback options where funds are held until specific items are completed.
- Avoid relying on verbal promises. Put agreements in writing.
If the builder delays or resists
Stay organized and persistent.
- Keep a record of emails, photos, videos, and missed deadlines.
- Ask your agent to escalate to builder management and request a written remediation plan.
- For code concerns, contact local building inspections. For contract enforcement or escrow remedies, consult your closing attorney. State consumer or licensing resources may also help. Verify current procedures before filing complaints.
- Avoid refusing to close over minor cosmetic items unless your contract supports it or the issues affect habitability.
Local notes for Cassedale and 27534
- Permits and CO: In this area, either the City of Goldsboro or Wayne County may administer permits and inspections. Ask the builder which agency inspected your lot and request copies of final approvals.
- Climate: Eastern North Carolina is humid and warm. Pay extra attention to HVAC balancing, window seals, roofing and flashing, and exterior caulking. Proper grading and drainage are key.
- Seasonal landscaping: Seeding or sodding may be deferred due to weather. Put timelines and standards in writing.
- Utilities: Confirm local providers for water, electric, gas, and sewer or septic. Set up accounts so all systems can be tested before closing.
- HOA: If Cassedale has an HOA, review rules and assessment timing. Make sure you receive all required documents.
Day-of walkthrough flow
- Start outside: rooflines, gutters, grading, and exterior seals.
- Move inside: P1 safety and code items, then HVAC, plumbing, and electrical.
- Test appliances and garage systems.
- Check windows, doors, and locks.
- Walk each room for finish items and take photos.
- Collect or confirm documents and keys.
- Finalize punch list, assign priorities, and get timelines.
Ready to move with confidence
Your final walkthrough is a verification step, not a redo of the inspection. Prioritize safety and major systems, document everything, and get timelines in writing. If you need a focused one-page checklist, a pre-walkthrough planning call, or help negotiating punch-list timelines, reach out. With deep local experience and a legal background in contracts and deadlines, Arnie Jones can guide you from walkthrough to a confident closing.
FAQs
When should I schedule the final walkthrough for a Cassedale new build?
- Aim for 24 to 72 hours before closing so recent work is visible and the builder can respond quickly.
What if I find a safety or code issue during the walkthrough?
- Prioritize correction before occupancy and request a written plan with deadlines. Coordinate with local inspections if needed.
Can I still close if cosmetic items are unfinished in 27534?
- Often yes, using a written repair agreement or an escrow holdback for defined items with completion dates.
Who pays for punch-list repairs on a new construction home?
- Typically the builder, if covered by your contract or warranty. Confirm responsibilities in your purchase agreement and warranty documents.
What paperwork should I receive at or before closing on a Cassedale home?
- Warranties, appliance manuals, as-built info, final inspections and CO, lien waivers where applicable, HOA documents, keys, remotes, and codes.
What should I bring to my final walkthrough in Cassedale?
- A printed checklist, phone for photos, flashlight, notepad, pen, tape measure, step stool, and optionally an outlet tester.
