This is the second part of our series on what items a new home buyer should look for once they decide to purchase their dream home.  In this part we will focus on inspecting the home’s interior.

Plumbing Fixtures

• Check for chips in bathtubs, toilets and sinks.
• Ensure that all faucets work properly.
• Check that cabinets are securely fixed to the wall.
• Examine caulking around tub and shower enclosures and at countertop backsplashes.

Basement

• Check for signs of water penetration in the basement walls.
• Ensure that the basement floor slopes toward the floor drain.
• See that floor joists are made from sound lumber. Joists spanning more than 2.1 metres should have bridging and/or strapping installed unless an engineered flooring system has been used.
• Check for insulation and vapour barrier in the joist spaces.

Doors

• See that doors are well-fitted and operate as intended.
• Check that locks are well installed and do not rattle when the door is closed.
• Check that the exterior doors have been sealed with weather-stripping.

Windows

• Operate windows to ensure they open and close properly.
• Make sure there are no cracked panes and that all appropriate screens are in place.

Kitchen

• Check for damage to countertops, cupboard doors, sinks and appliances.
• Ensure that cabinet doors are properly aligned.
• Check spaces for standard appliances unless specific measurements were given to your builder. The space allotted for your appliances should be correct.
• Test the range hood fan and light.
• Make sure there are electrical outlets above the counter.

Interior Finishes

• Inspect the wall finishes for uneven paint coverage.
• Check handrails on stairs to ensure they are securely fastened and smooth to the touch with no rough edges, chips or gouges.

Closets

• Make sure that doors are secure and that they open and close easily.

Floors

• Walk across all floors. You should hear only a minimum of squeaks and notice a minimum of spring when walking on the floor. Due to the nature of wood, a wood floor system will have a certain amount of unevenness.
• See that floor coverings have a relatively flat surface.
• Examine seams in carpets and vinyl to ensure they are tight.
• Inspect ceramic tiles for surface cracks. Joints between ceramic tiles should be well-filled with grout.
• Inspect flooring for damage.
• Examine carpeting for stains or shade variations.

Upgrades and options

• Make sure that all pre-selected upgrades and options have been installed.