Move-In Ready Renovation Checklist

Reaching the end of a home renovation is exciting — but moving in before the project is truly complete is a mistake that homeowners consistently regret. Unresolved punch list items become much harder to address once you're living in the space. Contractor access gets complicated. Momentum slows. Small issues that would have taken an hour to fix during construction take weeks to coordinate afterward.

This checklist covers what should be verified and signed off before any renovation project is considered move-in ready.

Final Inspections and Permits

• ☐Certificate of occupancy or final inspection approval received from the building department
• ☐All trade inspection sign-offs complete (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, framing)
• ☐All permits closed and on file — request copies for your records

Mechanical Systems

• ☐HVAC system operational and tested — all zones heating and cooling correctly
• ☐Plumbing fixtures tested — no leaks under sinks, at supply lines, or at drain connections
• ☐Water heater operational and set to correct temperature
• ☐Electrical panel labeled correctly for all new circuits
• ☐All outlets, switches, and light fixtures operational
• ☐GFCI protection verified in all wet areas (kitchen, bathrooms, exterior)
• ☐Smoke and CO detectors installed per current code

Kitchen

• ☐All cabinets level, doors aligned, and hardware installed and tightened
• ☐Countertops sealed (stone), backsplash fully grouted and caulked at transitions
• ☐All appliances installed, operational, and tested
• ☐Range hood venting operational and exterior duct cap installed
• ☐Sink supply and drain connections leak-free after 24-hour test

Bathrooms

• ☐All tile grouted and caulked at all changes of plane (floor-to-wall, wall corners)
• ☐Shower pan flood-tested (24-hour standing water test with no drainage)
• ☐Glass enclosure installed, sealed, and operating correctly
• ☐Exhaust fan operational and vented to exterior
• ☐All fixtures and hardware installed and secured

Finishes Throughout

• ☐Paint complete, touch-ups done, no visible roller marks or missed areas
• ☐Flooring installed, transitions complete, no squeaks or hollow spots
• ☐Trim and millwork complete, caulked, and painted
• ☐All doors hang and latch correctly, hardware installed

Documentation to Receive at Project Closeout

• Copies of all permits and inspection sign-offs
• Manufacturer warranties for appliances, fixtures, and materials
• Contractor warranty documentation (typically 1 year on workmanship)
• Paint colors with manufacturer codes for future touch-ups
• Maintenance instructions for stone surfaces, specialty finishes, and wood floors
• Contact information for your project manager and key subcontractors