ᐅ Final Inspection – What to Consider?

Created on: 7 Feb 2016 21:30
L
Legurit
Hello everyone,

Our final inspection is coming up soon, and we’re wondering if we need to prepare anything or keep anything in mind.

So far, we have listed all the minor defects – mostly the tiler made a bit of a mess.
Additionally, we have reported a roller shutter where the slats extend beyond the casing edge and cause some rattling – I’m worried the motor might be affected by this.
Also, one socket of a double outlet doesn’t work, and another has a child safety lock that is too secure (it’s impossible to bypass).
Other than that, there are small cracks between the drywall and the wall (this seems to be due to the unfortunate construction and isn’t really noticeable).
The retractable attic ladder is a bit stiff when closing – but that was more of a discussion between the construction manager and the carpenter. It will likely be noted as well.
There is a slightly larger crack between an internal and an external wall, which we will bring up.
Some items like stair railings and the porch roof are still missing – but those will also be documented. We have already done a preliminary walk-through with the construction manager.

The construction manager wanted to convert the attic during the inspection and was excited about how spacious it is 😀

We are wondering if it still makes sense to hire an expert or if that would be a waste of effort. All parts of the scope of work have been completed.
Defects that appear later – as I understand it – are covered by the warranty.

Some tradespeople said it’s common to check again after two years for settlement cracks or similar issues and have those fixed. However, the scope of work states:

The warranty period for the building is five years.
The contractor points out that, according to applicable legal regulations, they are not liable for building physics phenomena whose occurrence cannot be excluded even with construction executed according to all technical standards.
This particularly includes cracking of elastic joints, cracks in solid wood, plaster, and other building components.


For me, this means such defects are actually not covered by the warranty, or am I mistaken? In other words, I would have to prove that a settlement crack was caused by a defect and not by the natural settlement behavior of calcium silicate blocks or similar – which will be difficult.

Other than that, I am considering whether to mention the differing screed insulation on the ground and upper floors – we were not consulted on this, and it deviates from the scope of work. On the other hand, it doesn’t really bother me… probably just a matter of being right.

What are your opinions, thoughts, suggestions regarding the final inspection?
How was it for you? Were you accompanied, or were many issues still open?

Best regards.
L
Legurit
12 Feb 2016 11:53
Handover completed. Now, the separately hired plumbing specialist is going to dirty my nicely pre-cleaned tiles again 😀
But everything went well so far – the move is planned for tomorrow.
Masipulami12 Feb 2016 11:59
All the best in your new home!
WildThing12 Feb 2016 14:45
Wow! Congratulations and lots of fun and enjoyment in your new home!
I hope we can "follow" you soon with our move... But it will still take a little while for us...
B
b54
12 Feb 2016 15:54
Have fun AFTER the move, as the move itself is usually not that enjoyable.
tomtom7913 Feb 2016 02:00
Congratulations on your new house..

What does the defect list say?
L
Legurit
13 Feb 2016 08:10
Discolored Aglo marble window sills
A small crack between the interior and exterior walls
Two electrical outlets and ventilation system control on the ground floor

Not included yet, but still missing is the canopy – it is scheduled to arrive next week.