Inspection Checklists
Before you release the final payment on a home project, run the matching checklist. Every item is cited to a building code or industry standard (like the IRC), so you know what 'acceptable' actually means — not what the contractor says it means.
IRC-standard checks for new roof installation — nailing, flashing, drip edge, underlayment. Before you release the final payment.
Verify Manual J sizing, AHRI-matched equipment, refrigerant charge, duct sealing and permits before sign-off.
Outlet spacing, vent routing, waterproofing, appliance clearances — plus the punch list that holds back payment.
Flood test before tile, membrane coverage, valve depth, fan venting — catch failures while walls are still open.
Moisture testing, acclimation, flatness, expansion gaps — the invisible steps that decide whether floors fail.
Wash, sand, prime, back-roll — verify prep before color hides it, then rake-light inspect the finish.
Box fill, grounding, GFCI/AFCI placement, torque specs — fire-risk shortcuts inspections sometimes miss.
Witnessed pressure tests, drain slope, shutoff replacement, soak tests — stop leaks before walls close.
Flashing sequence, sill pans, head flashing, low-expansion foam — water management verified in order.
Material spec, per-floor pressure tests, dielectric unions, patch scope — agreed before demo starts.
TPR discharge pipe, gas sediment trap, seismic strapping, expansion tank — the safety details that matter.
Ledger bolts (never nails), frost-depth footings, rated hanger nails, guardrail load tests.