Post-construction inspection: what to observe before moving into a new apartment

The post-construction inspection is an essential step before moving into a new apartment. It allows the identification of any faults or pending issues left by the construction company — such as finish problems, leaks, cracks, malfunctioning electrical and hydraulic installations, among other points that can compromise the full use of the property. In this text, we have gathered the main aspects to be observed during this check. Understanding what to evaluate in the post-construction inspection is essential to ensure that the property is according to what was contracted, avoid future losses, and enter a new home with more peace of mind.

Why is the post-construction inspection so important?

The post-construction inspection is not a formality: it is a right guaranteed to the buyer and represents one of the last steps before the definitive possession of the apartment. This process allows the identification of possible flaws in the execution of the work, apparent defects, or even non-conformities concerning the descriptive memorial. Moreover, this moment is essential for recording any necessary corrections that should be made by the construction company. Once the inspection term is signed without reservations, it is assumed that the buyer agrees with the conditions of the property, which can make future complaints difficult. Therefore, attention to detail is essential.

What to check in the structure and finishes

Start by checking the condition of the walls, floors, and ceilings. Look for cracks, damp stains, unevenness, and any imperfections in the coating. Observe whether alignment is achieved and whether the edges are well executed. On the floors, walk through the rooms and listen for hollow sounds or loose pieces, which may indicate installation failures. For windows and doors, test the opening, closing, and sealing — especially in high-rise apartments, where the wind can exert greater pressure. In bathrooms and wet areas, turn on the faucets and observe the operation of the drains. Check also the slope of the floor, which should properly direct the water. These are small tests that make all the difference in daily life.

Electrical and hydraulic installations

In the electrical system, turn on switches and outlets. Bring a portable lamp or charger to perform simple tests, ensuring that the power points are functioning. Check the distribution board and whether the circuit breakers are correctly labeled. In the hydraulic installations, open and close all faucets, flush toilets, and check for visible leaks. Test the water heating, if the system is instantaneous or central, and check if there is sufficient pressure at the outlets. Remember: problems in installations, when not identified in time, can cause significant future inconveniences.

Documentation, records, and communication with the construction company

During the post-construction inspection, note all the points found, even those that appear to be simple. If possible, take dated photos and videos — creating a reliable record of the property's situation at the time of delivery. This material will be important for formalizing repair requests with the construction company.

Additionally, do not hesitate to bring a trusted professional to accompany the inspection. Engineers, architects, or building technicians have experience in identifying issues that may go unnoticed by untrained eyes. In some cases, the ideal is to request a new inspection after corrections to validate the modifications made.

Post-Construction Inspection Checklist

1. Structure and finishes

• Check for cracks in the walls, ceilings, and floors

• Evaluate the leveling of floors and walls

• Observe if the joints are well applied, without flaws

• Check the fixing of baseboards, moldings, and frames

• Ensure that there are no damp stains or leaks

2. Painting

• Check that the paint is uniform, without bubbles, stains, or peeling

• Verify that the colors match the specifications

• Analyze whether the corners and finishes were well executed

3. Electrical installations

• Test all power points (outlets and switches)

• Check the operation of internal and external lighting

• Check the identification of the electrical panel

• Ensure that the grounding was done correctly

4. Hydraulic installations

• Test faucets, showers, and toilets

• Check for leaks or drips

• Verify the water pressure

• Check drainage and unclogging of drains

5. Carpentry and built-in furniture

• Check if doors and drawers operate smoothly

• Check the alignment and leveling of the furniture

• Evaluate finishes such as handles, hinges, and paint

• Confirm that the furniture was installed according to the project

6. Frames and glass

• Check if windows and glass doors are operating correctly

• Check the integrity and finishing of the glass

• Evaluate sealing with rubber and insulation

7. Air conditioning and ventilation

• Test air conditioning and fans

• Analyze the natural ventilation of the environments

• Check the operation of exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens

8. Final cleaning and residues

• Ensure that the location was delivered clean and without debris

• Check for paint splatters or leftover materials

• Confirm the careful removal of tarps, plastics, and protective tapes

9. Compliance with the project

• Compare the execution with the approved project or the agreed adjustments

• Identify possible divergences in materials and finishes

• Check if customized items are as ordered

10. Documentation

• Request the owner's manual and warranties from suppliers

• Check the delivery of invoices for materials and services

• Organize a photographic record of the finished work

• Request the completion report signed by the technical manager.

CASACOR Publisher is a creator of exclusive content, developed by the CASACOR Technology team from the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho. [april-see-also]W3siaWQiOjIwMzg3NiwidGl0bGUiOiJMdXogY2VydGEsIGNhc2EgaWRlYWw6IGNvbW8gYSBvcmllbnRhJiN4RTc7JiN4RTM7byBzb2xhciB0cmFuc2Zvcm1hIHNldSBwcm9qZXRvIn0seyJpZCI6MjAzODAxLCJ0aXRsZSI6IkFycXVpdGV0dXJhIHZlcm5hY3VsYXI6IG8gcXVlICYjeEU5OyBlIG8gcXVlIHBvZGVtb3MgYXByZW5kZXIgY29tIGVsYT8ifSx7ImlkIjoyMDM0MjYsInRpdGxlIjoiQ2FzYXMgc3VzdGVudCYjeEUxO3ZlaXM6IHByaW5jJiN4RUQ7cGlvcyBlIHRlY25vbG9naWFzIHBhcmEgdW0gbW9yYXIgbWFpcyBjb25zY2llbnRlIn1d