When you buy

Running in your new home

What to look for when you move in to your new home

In association with

Your essential checklist - just print out this form and fill it in as you check over your new home

When NHBC's inspectors carry out inspections on your new home, they concentrate on the most significant points of construction which would be expensive to remedy should any problems arise. This is why we advise you to inspect your new home thoroughly when you move in. You can use this checklist to inspect your home before you complete your purchase and when you move in. Remember, the standard of work you are legally entitled to under Buildmark is that which an average craftsperson should achieve.

Checking outside

The brickwork

Is the brickwork clean and free from major chips and mortar splashes?

Is the mortar evenly finished and of a consistent colour?

Has a top coat been applied to all painted surfaces; and is the finish to a satisfactory standard?

Have the windowsills been finished off, including exposed undersides of the sill?

External pipes/outside drains

Do the downpipes and guttering appear secure?

Are there any visible leaks or blockages from leaves and other debris?

Are manhole covers level with the surrounding surfaces - and do they fit properly?

Do garage doors open and shut properly?

Has debris and builders' rubbish been removed from inside the garage?

Drives and pathways

Are drives and pathways complete?

Are the surfaces even?

Does the gradient and access of the drive/path allow for clear access?

Gardens

Has debris and builders' rubbish been removed?

Where specified, has landscaping of the garden been carried out?

Walls, fences and gates

Are boundary walls complete?

Are fences secure?

Are outside gates in working order?

The roof

Do any of the tiles or slates look cracked or loose?

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When you buy

Running in your new home

What to look for when you move in to your new home

Checking outside

When you buy: other features

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