Bathroom remodel final walkthrough checklist

Required permits and inspections should be closed or at the agreed stage, and the completed work should match approved documents and authorized changes.

Review permit status, inspection approvals, invoices, model numbers, tile and grout selections, finish schedule, allowances, and unresolved change orders.

- Final payment requested before required inspection

- Installed fixture differs from selection without approval

- Concealed correction has no photo or inspection record

- Open change-order cost discovered at closeout

Shower receptors, walls, niches, curbs, drains, penetrations, and transitions should use a compatible waterproofing system installed and tested as required before cover-up.

Review pre-tile photos, product labels, flood-test or inspection records, drain connection, corners, curb, niche, glass attachment plan, and any repairs made before tile.

- No record of shower pan test

- Mixed waterproofing products without approved detail

- Glass or accessory fasteners puncture unplanned locations

- Waterproofing was hidden before inspection

Water supplies, shutoffs, valves, fixtures, traps, drains, overflows, and accessible joints should operate as intended and remain watertight.

Run hot and cold fixtures, fill and drain basins or tub, flush toilet, operate shower controls, and inspect cabinets, access panels, floor edges, and ceiling below where available.

- Slow leak at valve or trap

- Tub overflow or stopper does not function

- Shower control temperature direction is wrong

- Drainage is slow or water remains outside intended wet area

Receptacles, GFCI protection, luminaires, switches, fans, heaters, and equipment locations should comply with the adopted electrical and mechanical requirements and product listings.

Test GFCI devices and controls, operate fan and light modes, check fan termination documentation, inspect device fit at tile, and confirm no equipment error or unusual noise.

- GFCI test fails or device is mislabeled

- Fan discharges into attic or inaccessible cavity

- Device covers do not sit flat on tile

- Heater or light clearance conflicts with installed finishes

Visible finishes should match the agreed design, remain functional, and be free of unresolved cracks, chips, lippage, poor joints, contamination, damage, or incomplete adjustment.

Inspect under normal and side lighting. Operate doors, drawers, glass, accessories, and hardware. Review grout and sealant at changes of plane, cleaning, spare materials, care instructions, and final punch list.

- Cracked grout or missing flexible joint

- Cabinet door or shower glass rubs

- Paint or sealant contaminates finished surfaces

- Debris remains in drains or ventilation grille