New Construction Quality Checklist: 25 Things to Inspect Before Possession

Introduction

The pre-possession inspection is your last chance to get defects fixed at the builder's cost. Once you sign the possession letter, responsibility shifts to you. This comprehensive checklist ensures nothing is missed.

Before the Inspection

What to Bring

• Agreement copy with specifications
• Measuring tape
• Flashlight
• Phone for photos and videos
• Notebook and pen
• Spirit level (optional)
• This checklist

When to Visit

• Daytime for natural light visibility
• After recent rain (reveals waterproofing issues)
• Multiple visits at different times

Structural Inspection

1. Walls

Check for:

• Cracks (hairline vs structural)
• Dampness or water stains
• Plumb (vertical alignment)
• Surface finish quality
• Paint uniformity

Red flags:

• Horizontal cracks at floor-wall junction
• Diagonal cracks near windows
• Bulging or hollow sounds when tapped

2. Ceiling

Check for:

• Cracks or patches
• Water stains
• Level (use water in glass to check)
• Light fixture points
• AC provision points

Red flags:

• Brown stains (water leakage from above)
• Sagging
• Cracks around fixture points

3. Flooring

Check for:

• Tile quality matches samples
• Level (no unevenness)
• Grout filling complete
• No hollow tiles (tap and listen)
• Edge finishing at walls

Red flags:

• Hollow sound when tapped
• Lippage (uneven tile heights)
• Cracked or chipped tiles

4. Doors

Check for:

• Smooth opening and closing
• Lock functionality
• Door stopper
• Gap at bottom (uniform)
• Finish and paint quality
• Hinges tightness

Red flags:

• Rubbing against frame or floor
• Warped wood
• Poor quality hardware

5. Windows

Check for:

• Opening and closing smoothly
• Locking mechanism works
• Mosquito mesh frame
• Glass quality and thickness
• Seal between glass and frame
• No gaps for water entry

Red flags:

• Rattling when opened/closed
• Gaps in frame joints
• Scratched or tinted glass

Plumbing Inspection

6. Bathroom Fittings

Check:

• All taps work
• Hot and cold water connections
• Showerhead flow
• Mixer function
• Health faucet
• Towel rods and holders

7. Toilet

Check:

• Flush function
• Water level in tank
• Seat quality and fitting
• No leakage at base
• Jet spray function

8. Water Pressure

Test:

• Multiple taps simultaneously
• Upper floor pressure (if applicable)
• Hot water from geyser point

9. Drainage

Check:

• Floor trap positions
• Slope toward drains
• No water accumulation
• Drain covers fitted
• Fast draining (pour bucket test)

10. Kitchen Sink

Check:

• Proper fitting
• Drainage works
• No leaks underneath
• Tap quality and function

Electrical Inspection

11. Switches and Sockets

Check:

• All switches work
• Socket outlets (use phone charger test)
• Proper placement as per plan
• Switch plate alignment
• No loose connections

12. Lighting Points

Check:

• All ceiling points work
• Balcony lights
• Bathroom lights
• Passage lights

13. MCB/Distribution Box

Check:

• All MCBs functional
• Labels for each circuit
• ELCB installed
• Accessible location

14. AC Points

Check:

• MCB for AC
• Socket point
• Drain pipe outlet
• Outdoor unit platform

15. Geyser Points

Check:

• High capacity socket
• Proper height
• Near water source

Specific Area Checks

16. Balcony

Check:

• Waterproofing (visible membrane)
• Slope toward drain
• Railing height and strength
• Glass quality if glazed
• Tile grouting

17. Kitchen

Check:

• Electrical points for appliances
• Chimney outlet provision
• Adequate lighting
• Plumbing roughing for water purifier
• Gas pipeline entry

18. Utility/Service Area

Check:

• Washing machine point (water + drain)
• Drying area access
• Electrical for appliances
• Ventilation

External and Common Areas

19. Parking

Check:

• Allocated spot accessible
• Markings clear
• Sufficient space
• Lighting adequate
• No structural issues

20. Lift

Check:

• Operational
• Smooth ride
• Emergency features
• Intercom works
• Inspection certificate

21. Common Passages

Check:

• Lighting works
• Fire extinguishers present
• Emergency exit signs
• Clean finishing

Documentation Check

22. Verify Measurements

Measure:

• Carpet area matches agreement
• Balcony sizes
• Each room dimensions

23. Specifications Match

Compare with agreement:

• Flooring brand/type
• Sanitary ware brand
• Fittings quality
• Paint type

24. Amenities Delivered

Confirm:

• Promised amenities ready
• Club house functional
• Power backup working
• Water supply adequate

25. Essential Documents

Collect:

• Occupancy Certificate copy
• Completion Certificate copy
• Society formation details
• Maintenance terms
• Warranty cards for fittings

What to Do With Findings

Create Snag List

1. Photograph each issue
2. Note location precisely
3. Describe problem clearly
4. Submit in writing to builder

Negotiation

• Get acknowledgment of snag list
• Timeline for repairs
• Reinspection date
• Withhold final payment until resolved

If Builder Refuses

• Document refusal in writing
• Complain to RERA
• Consider legal notice
• Don't sign possession without recording objections

Conclusion

Taking possession is exciting, but don't let emotions override diligence. A thorough inspection protects your investment and ensures you get what you paid for. Builders expect snag lists – it's part of the process.