Final Walk-Through Pre-Closing Checklist – Be Prepared
The first step toward a successful walk-through is to make sure you come prepared so you can document the condition of the property. Bring a camera to take photos of any areas of the apartment that does not meet your standards and to keep a visual record of the condition. Have a pen and paper so you can take notes. Be sure to have a cell phone charger to check that all electrical outlets function. Also, bring a tape measure to ensure your furniture will fit in the elevator and through the halls and doorways.
In addition to being prepared with the right equipment, it’s also important to have a clear plan for what you’re going to check. Since an unorganized walkthrough is not going to be successful, we’ve simplified this process by putting together a comprehensive checklist.
By following each item on the checklist below, you’ll be able to get to everything that should be addressed during the walkthrough. That will give you peace of mind, as well as make this experience as efficient as possible.
Once you complete the walkthrough with your buyer’s agent or owner, be sure to let your attorney know if all is ok or if there are any issues that may require negotiating repairs or escrow at closing.
So without further ado, here’s everything you’ll need to check at walkthrough:
Walk-Through Checklist
GENERAL CHECKS
Check for any signs of an insect rodent infestation, such as droppings or chew marks.YESNO
Make sure home phone or cable jacks are available, and that they are functioning and accessible.YESNO
Check for floor creaks, noticeable cracks in plaster or drywall that might have been covered before the previous owner moved out, which could be signs of structural damage.YESNO
Turn on all light switches, the microwave, and the A/C unit at the same time to be sure a breaker doesn’t trip.YESNO
SAFETY CHECKS
Check to see that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working and in the appropriate areas, and ensure that fire extinguishers are in place.YESNO
Find the fire escape plan if your home is in an apartment building, and make sure you know where to go in the event of a fire or other emergency.YESNO
Check each electrical outlet by plugging in a cell phone charger or another electronic device.YESNO
DOOR AND WINDOW CHECKS
Check all windows and doors to make sure they operate properly.YESNO
Try all locks and doorknobs to ensure they are secure and not wobbly. If there is more than one type of lock, ask your building super for a key for each lock.YESNO
Be sure window screens function.YESNO
KITCHEN CHECKS
Turn on all the burners on the stove to make sure they light.YESNO
Open and close the oven door, and check that all racks are in the oven. Check the broiler and make sure it works.YESNO
Open and close the refrigerator doors and pull out every drawer. Check for any musty smells. If there is an ice-maker, check to see if it works. Make sure the fridge is chilly and the freezer is cold.YESNO
Check all other appliances (microwave, dishwasher, etc.) and make sure they are in good working order.YESNO
Examine tile for any scrapes, scuffs and cracks, and check the counter tops for any stains, burn marks or chips.YESNO
Open and close all the cupboard doors and drawers. Check for chips and dings.YESNO
BATHROOM CHECKS
Flush toilets to make sure the plumbing works properly. Look inside the tank to be certain the handle is sturdy.YESNO
Check for leaks under the sink by running every faucet. Look under the sink to make sure there are no drips, water discolorations or odors. Fill up the sinks to make sure they hold water and drain properly.YESNO
Make sure the shower-head works, and the water pressure is good. Test the hot water to ensure it heats up in a timely manner. Fill the tub with water to be sure that it drains well.YESNO
Open the medicine cabinet door to be certain it works well.YESNO
BEDROOM AND LIVING ROOM CHECKS
If the air conditioner is in the window, test it on low, medium, and high to be certain it cools. Listen for any strange sounds and be aware of any weird smells, which could be a sign that the filter needs to be changed.YESNO
Open and close the blinds to make sure they work properly.YESNO
Look for cracks and dents in the baseboards.YESNO
Check for stains in the carpet, chipped paint, peeling wallpaper, and large holes in the wall.YESNO
Make sure the fireplace (if there is one) is in working condition.YESNO
Once you and your broker have completed the walk-through, schedule any repairs, and make sure to sign a document detailing the agreed-upon condition of the property before going to closing.YESNO
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