New-Construction Walkthrough Checklist For Spartanburg Buyers

Excited to walk your brand-new Spartanburg home, but worried you might miss something small that becomes a big headache? You are not alone. New builds look great on the surface, yet the real test is how well the home handles our humidity, rain, and daily use. This guide gives you a clear, step-by-step walkthrough checklist tailored to Spartanburg’s climate and common builder practices, plus tips to protect your warranty and peace of mind. Let’s dive in.

Why Spartanburg walkthroughs need a local lens

Spartanburg sits in a humid subtropical zone with hot summers and mild winters. That means HVAC sizing, moisture control, and durable exterior materials matter. Heavy summer rain and storm remnants increase the stakes for grading, gutters, and drainage that keep water away from your foundation.

Termites are a known risk across South Carolina. You want to verify the home’s termite protection plan, materials used, and any transferable warranty. Our Piedmont clays can expand and contract with moisture, so careful site prep and positive grading are important for long-term foundation performance.

Utilities vary by location. Some neighborhoods connect to municipal water and sewer, while others rely on well and septic. Confirm what you have, where the components are located, and how to maintain them. A little clarity now prevents costly surprises later.

Your walkthrough game plan

What to bring and who to invite

• Printed or digital checklist, flashlight, tape measure, blue painter’s tape, notepad, and phone/camera.
• Contract, floor plans, finish selections, and warranty documents.
• An outlet tester and small level, if you have them.
• The builder’s superintendent or site manager should walk with you. Consider hiring an independent home inspector. A third-party set of eyes helps even on brand-new homes.

Two checkpoints: orientation and final

• Builder orientation: You learn systems, features, and maintenance. Start your punch list here and confirm what will be finished before closing.
• Final walkthrough: Verify that punch-list items are complete and the home is move-in ready. Note anything outstanding with agreed dates and who is responsible.

Exterior checklist

Lot and drainage (High priority)

• Confirm the final grade slopes away from the foundation for at least 6 to 10 feet.
• Look for signs of ponding after rain, soggy spots, or water staining on siding or foundation.
• Check that downspouts discharge away from the house with splash blocks or extensions.

Foundation and crawlspace

• Inspect visible foundation walls for cracks or offsets. Document any hairline cracks and flag larger ones.
• If you have a crawlspace, verify access, vapor barrier coverage, and mechanicals installed per plan.
• Look for moisture, standing water, or damaged insulation.

Roof and gutters

• Shingles should have a consistent pattern with no missing or lifted tabs. Flashing should be neat at chimneys, vents, and wall intersections.
• Gutters and downspouts should be secure and properly pitched.
• Ask how roof attachments and flashing were handled for severe weather.

Siding, windows, and exterior doors

• Check caulking and paint coverage around windows and doors. Trim should be straight and tight to the wall.
• Open and lock each window and exterior door. Weatherstripping should be intact and seal well.
• Look for gaps where pests or moisture could enter.

Driveway, walks, patios, decks (High priority)

• Driveways and sidewalks should not slope toward the house or create trip hazards.
• Concrete finishes should be uniform without spalling or major cracks.
• For decks, verify proper ledger attachment, flashing, and secure railings.

Systems and structure

Electrical

• Test every switch and outlet. Use a simple outlet tester where practical.
• Confirm GFCI and AFCI protection where required, including kitchens, bathrooms, garage, and outdoor locations.
• Check exterior lights, doorbell, and any smart-home features.

Plumbing

• Run every faucet and shower. Check water pressure and hot water at all fixtures.
• Look under sinks while water is running to spot leaks.
• Flush each toilet to confirm stability and proper fill and shutoff.
• Test hose bibs and locate exterior shutoffs. Confirm cold-weather protection where needed.

HVAC and ventilation

• Cycle heating and cooling if season allows, or review manufacturer startup and commissioning paperwork.
• Check thermostat operation, air register placement, and that returns are not blocked.
• Ask about filter size and location, refrigerant charge verification, and recommended maintenance.

Insulation and energy features

• Compare insulation levels in the attic and walls to the specifications noted on the energy or code compliance certificate.
• Look for attic baffles at the eaves and sealed penetrations around lights or ducts.
• Verify Low-E windows, door seals, and any energy labels or test results if available.

Interior finishes and function

Floors, walls, and ceilings

• Use your flashlight close to surfaces to spot paint holidays, nail pops, and drywall seams.
• Check flooring for chips, gaps, squeaks, or transitions that are not flush.
• Note any repairs needed, and confirm the plan and timeline for touch-ups.

Doors, hardware, and trim

• Open and close every door. Look for rubbing or latches that do not catch.
• Closet doors should slide or swing smoothly and stay on track.
• Check caulk lines and joints at baseboards and window casing.

Kitchen and appliances

• Confirm appliances match the agreed model numbers and are installed correctly.

• Test each appliance: range, vent hood, microwave, dishwasher, disposal, and refrigerator water/ice if applicable.

• Inspect cabinets and drawers for alignment and soft-close operation. Check countertops for chips, seam alignment, and sealed edges.

Bathrooms

• Run showers and tubs long enough to check drainage and consistent temperature.
• Inspect grout and caulk lines in showers and around tubs and vanities.
• Confirm exhaust fans work and vent as intended.
• Check toilet seating, stability, and caulk at the base.

Storage and attic

• Verify closet shelving is secure and installed per plan.
• If you have pull-down attic stairs, test them carefully and check for safe, clear access.
• Confirm garage storage features are sturdy and installed as promised.

Safety and code items

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

• Confirm the quantity and locations align with local code.
• Test that each unit is powered and interconnected where required.
• Ask for documentation of code compliance.

Stairs, railings, and egress

• Railings should feel solid with proper height and spacing.
• Bedrooms must have operable egress windows. If you have window wells, verify ladder requirements.
• Ensure pathways are clear for emergency access.

Garage separation and fire details

• Check the fire-rated wall and door between garage and living space.
• Verify that the garage-to-house door self-closes and latches.
• Look for sealed penetrations in the garage wall and ceiling.

Accessibility items (if applicable)

• If you requested grab bars, ramps, or other modifications, confirm they match the agreement and are securely installed.

Site utilities and paperwork

Meters and utility hookups

• Confirm water, electric, and gas meters are installed and labeled for your home.
• Ask which services are active for the final walkthrough and what you must set up before move-in.

Property lines and easements

• Locate survey pins if present and ask about the final survey status.
• Note visible easements or common area boundaries that affect fences, sheds, or landscaping plans.

Grading, drainage features, and landscaping

• Confirm downspouts connect to splash blocks or extension piping as needed.
• Document landscaping scope based on your contract. Ask about final stabilization timelines and removal of temporary erosion controls.

Septic or sewer (High priority)

• Do not assume you are on municipal sewer. Confirm sewer or septic early.
• If septic, request the permit, system location map, drainfield setbacks, and maintenance guidance.
• Know where tank lids and lines are located to avoid future damage.

Builder paperwork, warranty, and inspections

• Collect warranty documents for workmanship, systems, and structural coverage. Note start dates and claim procedures.
• Request as-built drawings, appliance manuals, and HVAC startup paperwork.
• Confirm the final municipal inspections are complete and that a certificate of occupancy or final approval has been issued.
• Create a written punch list with agreed completion dates and responsible parties. Keep copies for your records.

Community and services

• Get HOA documents, fees, and rules, including timelines for community turnover to homeowners.
• Confirm mail delivery setup, trash and recycling collection days, and any community amenities access.
• Ask how local school assignments are determined and where to verify them.

Common red flags in Spartanburg builds

• Unfinished punch-list items at closing: Get completion dates in writing. For important items, consider an escrow holdback or delaying funds until the work is done.
• Water intrusion or poor drainage: Standing water near the foundation, missing downspout extensions, or negative grading should be corrected before you close or with a written plan and timeline.
• HVAC performance concerns: Uneven temperatures, loud operation, or weak airflow can indicate sizing or balancing issues. Ask for startup and performance data or request rebalancing.
• Cosmetic fixes hiding bigger issues: Fresh paint over cracks or trim that does not line up can signal an underlying problem. Request proper repairs, not just touch-ups, and bring in a specialist if needed.
• Missing documentation: Do not close without warranties, manuals, final inspection records, and the certificate of occupancy.
• Termite protection gaps: Ask for treatment records and details on termite shields or treated materials. Explore long-term warranty options.
• Confusion about sewer vs. septic: Verify service type, locations, and maintenance. Obtain septic permits and maps where applicable.
• Unclear boundaries: If lot corners are not marked, order a survey to avoid encroachments.

Who to contact in Spartanburg

• City of Spartanburg Building Inspections for permits and occupancy questions.
• Spartanburg County Planning and Development for county permitting and code questions.
• South Carolina DHEC for septic and well permitting and records.
• FEMA flood maps for flood zones and elevation certificates if your lot is near a flood-prone area.
• Clemson University Cooperative Extension for local termite and soil guidance.
• Independent home inspectors with ASHI or InterNACHI credentials for third-party inspections.
• Spartanburg Water and your electric or gas provider for meter verification and service activation.
• Your neighborhood HOA for CC&Rs, fees, and community guidelines.

Final tips for closing day

Walk slowly, test everything, and take photos of any issues. Keep your punch list concise, clear, and in writing. Know what must be done before closing and what can be handled after, with dates and responsible parties spelled out. A careful walkthrough protects your investment and helps your new home perform well through Spartanburg’s heat, humidity, and storms.

If you want a construction-savvy partner at your side, reach out to Dina Napechnik. You will get hands-on guidance, local market insight, and support in English, Russian, or Ukrainian, so you can close with confidence and enjoy move-in day.

FAQs

Should I hire an inspector for a new build in Spartanburg?

• Yes. A third-party inspector often finds defects that builder teams miss and helps you document issues and timelines before you close.

What does a builder warranty usually cover on a new home?

• Warranties vary, but they often include separate periods for workmanship, major systems, and structural coverage. Read terms, start dates, and claim steps carefully.

What if my punch-list items are not finished by closing?

• Get completion dates in writing and discuss options like an escrow holdback or delaying final funds until critical items are completed.

Why is a certificate of occupancy important in Spartanburg?

• It confirms local inspections are complete and the home meets code for occupancy. Do not close without it or equivalent final approval.

Who pays to fix defects after I move in?

• It depends on your contract and warranty. Items covered under the builder’s warranty are typically the builder’s responsibility within the defined period; others may fall to you after expiration.