How to Build a House
Step 7 – Construction Walkthroughs
During the actual construction of the home there will be several walk thru inspections involving the buyer and the builder’s representative. Many builders will include two walkthroughs during construction. The first will be to verify how the house is situated on the lot, while the second one will be prior to drywall being installed. If you want to visit the house more often during the construction process be sure to negotiate it into your deal with your builder.
Prior to the first walkthrough, the engineer will have staked out the corners of the house based upon a “grading plan” prepared for your home. The actual placement of the home takes into account setbacks from property lines as required by zoning laws or subdivision proffers. In addition, the house is situated to allow proper drainage of storm water. The builder’s representative will review the layout of the home and will advise if anything can be relocated. Most of time changes cannot be made, especially on smaller lots.
The walkthrough prior to drywall is primarily to verify electrical layouts as well as some structural options. In addition, this will be an opportunity for the builder to inform you of any field changes that were necessary because of plan or option issues. Typically the builder’s representative will walk you around each room reviewing electrical outlet placement and light placement. This will allow the owner to begin to visualize he finished product and add outlets or lights, usually at a predetermined price.