Final Inspection
This is your moment to thoroughly evaluate everything before signing off. A comprehensive walk-through with your contractor protects your investment and ensures the quality you're paying for. Don't rush - every minute spent here can save hours of frustration later.
Quick Summary
1-2 hours
You + Contractor
Phone, notepad, contract
Written punch list
Why the Final Inspection Matters
After weeks or months of construction, you're understandably eager to start enjoying your new kitchen. But resist the urge to rush through this final step. The inspection walk-through is your contractual opportunity to identify anything that isn't complete, doesn't work properly, or doesn't match what was agreed upon.
Once you make final payment and sign off on the work, your leverage significantly decreases. Getting a contractor back to fix minor issues after final payment can be challenging and time-consuming. Do your due diligence now.
Approach this as a business transaction, not as criticism of your contractor. Good contractors expect and appreciate thorough inspections - it demonstrates that you value quality and helps them maintain their standards.
Before the Walk-Through
Prepare so you can conduct a thorough, efficient inspection:
- Review your contract - Know exactly what was supposed to be delivered
- Check design documents - Compare the finished work to approved plans
- Gather change orders - Verify all approved changes were implemented
- Charge your phone - You'll take many photos for documentation
- Schedule adequate time - Don't squeeze this between meetings
Complete Inspection Checklist
Cabinets
- Every door opens fully without hitting adjacent cabinets or appliances
- All doors close properly and align with neighboring doors
- Soft-close hinges work on every door (if specified)
- All drawers glide smoothly and soft-close functions work
- Cabinet interiors are clean with no sawdust or debris
- All shelves are installed and adjustable clips are in place
- Hardware is securely attached and consistently placed
- No scratches, dents, or finish defects
Countertops
- Surface is level with no wobbling
- No chips, cracks, or scratches
- Seams are tight, level, and properly filled
- Edge profiles are consistent and properly finished
- Backsplash connection is properly caulked
- Sink and cooktop cutouts are clean with no rough edges
Appliances
- Refrigerator cools properly and ice maker produces ice (if equipped)
- Dishwasher runs complete cycle without leaks
- Oven heats to temperature and all burners ignite
- Range hood vents to exterior and light works
- Microwave functions on all settings
- Garbage disposal runs without unusual sounds
- All appliances are level and securely installed
- No dents, scratches, or shipping damage
Plumbing
- Faucet operates smoothly with no drips
- Hot water arrives within reasonable time
- Drain flows quickly without gurgling
- No leaks under sink (run water for 5+ minutes and check)
- Pot filler functions properly (if installed)
- Shut-off valves work correctly
Electrical
- Every outlet works (test with a lamp or phone charger)
- GFCI outlets trip and reset properly
- All light switches operate correct fixtures
- Dimmer switches function smoothly through full range
- Under-cabinet lights work on designated switch
- All outlet and switch covers are installed and aligned
Finishes
- Paint is even with no drips, holidays, or missed spots
- All nail holes in trim are filled and touched up
- Caulk lines are clean and complete
- Tile grout is complete with no gaps or cracks
- Flooring transitions are clean and properly installed
- Crown molding joints are tight and filled
Creating an Effective Punch List
As you inspect, document every issue you find. An effective punch list is specific, clear, and fair:
Punch List Format
For each item, include:
- Location: "Upper cabinet left of sink"
- Issue: "Door doesn't close fully - catches on adjacent door"
- Photo: Take a picture for reference
Important: Both you and the contractor should sign the punch list, acknowledging what needs to be completed. Keep a copy for your records.
Common Punch List Items
Cabinet Issues
- - Door alignment adjustments
- - Soft-close not engaging
- - Drawer glide adjustments
- - Missing shelf clips
- - Hardware not level
Finish Work
- - Paint touch-ups needed
- - Caulk gaps or voids
- - Grout repairs
- - Nail holes unfilled
- - Trim not flush to wall
Appliance Issues
- - Appliance not level
- - Anti-tip bracket missing
- - Water line connection leaking
- - Panel gaps or misalignment
- - Protective film not removed
Cleanup Items
- - Dust in cabinet interiors
- - Adhesive residue on surfaces
- - Construction debris
- - Stickers on appliances
- - Overspray on surfaces
FAQ
How long should a final inspection take?
Plan for 1-2 hours minimum for a thorough inspection. Don't rush - test every function and examine every surface. This is your best opportunity to catch issues before making final payment.
What should be on a kitchen punch list?
Include anything incomplete, defective, or not matching specifications. Common items: cabinet door adjustments, paint touch-ups, grout repairs, hardware alignment, appliance leveling, caulk touch-ups, and cleaning issues.
Should I withhold payment until the punch list is complete?
Yes - it's standard practice to hold 10-15% of final payment until punch list items are completed. This gives the contractor incentive to finish properly. Your contract should specify this arrangement.
Can I add items to the punch list later?
Most contracts allow adding legitimate items within 30-60 days. However, issues from normal use or things you should have caught during inspection may not qualify. Be thorough now.