New Construction Punch List

Your new construction punch list is the last big step before you get the keys to your new home. It’s your chance to walk room by room, test systems, and confirm the home was built to the standards you expect. On the Gulf Coast—where humidity, storms, and heavy rain are part of everyday life—this final walk-through is especially important.

Cretin Townsend Homes helps buyers across Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida, and Alabama understand what to look for so small issues don’t become big headaches later. This guide walks you through exactly how to handle your punch list with confidence.

Why a New Construction Punch List Matters

A new construction punch list is more than “touching up paint.” It’s a structured way to:

• Confirm that contracted work is substantially complete.
• Catch visible issues before you move furniture in and hide them.
• Document items while the builder’s teams are still onsite and organized.
• Clarify what will be handled before closing and what falls under warranty.

Think of it as your quality control step: you’re not re-engineering the home, you’re confirming the details match the plan, the finishes are correct, and the home is functioning as designed—especially important in Gulf Coast conditions.

What to Bring to Your Final Walk-Through

Showing up prepared makes a big difference. Bring:

• A copy of your contract and selections (so you know what was specified).
• The floor plan and any change orders.
• A notebook or punch list form (printed or digital).
• Blue painter’s tape (many builders use this to mark small cosmetic items).
• A phone flashlight for dark corners and attic access.

Ask your builder who will lead the walk-through and how punch-list items will be documented, assigned, and communicated.

Room-by-Room Final Walk-Through Checklist

Use this checklist as you walk each area. Mark items directly on your list so nothing is missed.

Whole House Checklist

• All lights turn on/off, dimmers work, and no flickering
• All outlets have covers, feel secure, and test correctly (GFCI where required)
• Doors open/close smoothly and latch properly
• Door hardware is tight; locks and deadbolts operate correctly
• Windows open/close/lock smoothly; screens are installed where specified
• No visible cracks or nail pops in walls/ceilings
• Paint is consistent (no obvious roller marks, missed spots, or touch-up sheen differences)
• Trim is caulked and painted; no gaps at baseboards or around windows
• Floors are clean, free of chips, cracks, major scratches, or hollow spots
• Thermostats are installed, labeled, and systems run (heat/cool)

Kitchen & Pantry

• Cabinets and drawers open/close smoothly and are aligned
• Cabinet doors and drawer fronts match your selections
• Countertops are free of chips/cracks and properly caulked at backsplash
• Sink has hot/cold water; no leaks visible under the sink
• Dishwasher, range, microwave, and other appliances power on
• Vent hood operates and vents properly (if applicable)
• Pantry shelving is installed, secure, and level

Bathrooms

• Faucets and showers have hot/cold and proper pressure
• Drains flow well and don’t back up
• Toilets are firmly set (no rocking) and flush properly
• Caulking and grout look complete and clean around tubs, showers, and floors
• Bathroom fans run quietly and vent outside (not just recirculating)
• Glass shower doors open/close smoothly and are sealed correctly

Bedrooms & Living Areas

• Closets have rods, shelves, and correct hardware
• Doors don’t drag on floors or carpet
• Windows and sills are clean and undamaged
• Any built-ins (shelving, fireplace surround, entertainment center) are solid and finished

Laundry, Mudroom, and Utility Rooms

• Washer hookups and dryer vent are installed and accessible
• Floor drains (if present) are visible and not covered by flooring
• Utility sinks work and don’t leak
• Mudroom hooks, cubbies, and benches are installed and secure

Exterior & Gulf Coast-Specific Checks

• Grading slopes away from the foundation where feasible
• Downspouts and splash blocks/extension pipes are installed and direct water away
• Driveway and walks are consistent, with no major cracks or trip hazards
• Siding, trim, and exterior caulking are complete with no visible gaps
• Exterior doors seal tightly; weatherstripping is intact
• Exterior outlets and hose bibs are in place and operational
• Paint/stain is complete on all exposed wood
• Any porch, patio, or deck feels solid with no wobbly rails

Note: Building codes, flood requirements, and wind ratings vary by jurisdiction. Your builder should confirm that all local requirements have been met and inspections passed.

Mini Reference Table: Who Handles What?

How Punch List Items Tie Into Your Warranty

Your punch list and warranty work together:

• The punch list focuses on visible and functional items at delivery.
• The warranty covers issues that appear over time, like seasonal nail pops or minor shifts.
• Some items may be documented on the punch list but realistically completed after you close because they require additional parts, special trades, or dry weather.
• Keep your warranty documents handy and note deadlines for reporting items (for example, 30-day and 11-month check-ins are common).

Ask your builder how they prefer you to submit warranty requests (online portal, email, or form) so nothing falls through the cracks.

Working with Your Builder During the Final Walk-Through

A productive final walk-through feels like a team effort, not a confrontation. Use these tips:

• Go slow and methodical—start at the front door and move clockwise.
• Ask your builder to explain any “normal” variations (like minor wood grain or drywall texture) versus true defects.
• Make sure all items are written down in one shared list.
• Clarify timelines: what will be finished before closing, and what will be scheduled afterward.
• Take photos of major items for your records.

Key Takeaways

• A new construction punch list is your final quality check before closing.
• Show up prepared—with your contract, selections, and a clear checklist.
• Focus on function plus finish: doors, windows, systems, surfaces, and exterior details.
• On the Gulf Coast, pay extra attention to drainage, sealing, and moisture control.
• Document everything in writing and understand how punch list items connect to your warranty and follow-up process.

FAQ: New Construction Punch List and Final Walk-Through

When does the new construction punch list happen?

Usually within a few days of closing, once the home is substantially complete and utilities are on so you can test systems.

How long should a final walk-through take?

Plan for at least 60–90 minutes for an average-sized home. Larger homes or more detailed builds may take longer.

What if I notice issues after I move in?

That’s where your new home warranty comes in. Most builders expect some items to show up after move-in; just follow the warranty reporting procedure and timelines in your documents.

Can I bring my own inspector to the final walk-through?

In many cases yes, as long as it’s coordinated in advance. Requirements vary by jurisdiction and by contract, so confirm with your builder.

Should every tiny paint mark go on the punch list?

You should document anything that bothers you now. That said, minor cosmetic items are often grouped into a single “paint touch-up” note rather than listed one by one.

What’s the difference between a punch list and an inspection report?

An inspection report is typically created by a licensed home inspector. A punch list is a mutually created list between you and your builder to capture final items to finish, adjust, or correct.

Can punch list items delay closing?

Sometimes. It depends on the severity of the issues and your agreement. Many minor items can be scheduled under warranty after closing, while more serious items may need to be addressed first.

How is this different for Gulf Coast homes?

You’ll pay extra attention to moisture, drainage, exterior sealing, and storm-hardening features so your home stands up well to local weather and humidity.