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Pre-Drywall Inspection Checklist
What to check inside the walls of a new build before the drywall hides it, trade by trade.
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A pre-drywall inspection happens after the rough-in for plumbing and electrical, and right before the drywall goes up. It's your chance to see the wires, pipes and studs while they're still open. InterNACHI says drywall can hide things, making problems difficult and expensive to fix once the home is finished, and insulation can conceal some components the same way. This list runs structure first, then wiring, plumbing and ducts, insulation, and the photos. It's written for a new build you're walking through with an inspector or on your own. It leaves out the code details your local building department sets.
Why these items are on the list
- Bring plans and spec sheets. Check what's being built against your spec and upgrade sheets.
- Pack a tape, straightedge and camera. A straightedge (one forum poster suggests six feet or more) and a tape measure.
- Check framing is plumb and square. Studs plumb and on layout. One forum poster warns poorly aligned spots worsen as the house settles.
- Test walls for flatness. Lay the straightedge across studs; one poster wouldn't want more than about 1/16 inch of gap.
- Check headers over openings. Sizes should be right, with king studs and trimmers in place.
- Look for blocking. Check blocking is in where extra support may be needed, like cabinets, grab bars and TV mounts; it's costly later.
- Count outlets in every room. Ask whether there's an appropriate number in each room.
- Check electrical boxes. Right height, flush with framing, wires secured and not pinched.
- Look for nail plates. Plate vulnerable wiring and piping. A forum poster says cables centered in the stud work too, if code-compliant.
- Confirm plumbing was pressure-tested. Supply and drain-waste-vent lines should be pressure-tested, so ask to see proof.
- Spot the washer drain pan. It catches water if the washing machine leaks.
- Note cleanouts and shut-offs. Write down where drain cleanouts, the main shut-off and the water heater sit.
- Check ducts are sealed. Joints taped, runs straight; every sharp turn lowers pressure, per one forum poster.
- Follow exhaust fans outdoors. Bath and kitchen exhausts should vent outdoors.
- Check window and door flashing. No gaps or daylight around frames, and exterior penetrations sealed.
- Look for fire blocking. It should be at vertical and horizontal breaks, with penetrations sealed.
- Check insulation. Look for gaps, squished edges and holes. If it's not in yet, this check has to wait.
- Photograph every wall. Every room, several angles, showing electrical runs. Manifold says skipping photos makes repairs guesswork.
- Photograph every electrical box. Photos of cable runs give peace of mind when you mount a heavy TV later.
- Ask for the inspector's report. Reports with photos or video are especially useful. Record everything you're allowed to.
- Confirm every trade's inspection passed. Also check punch-list items are resolved before anyone signs off.
Walk the house with your phone in one hand, ticking items and snapping photos as you go. If someone's walking with you, split the rooms.
When to use it
Use it at the walk-through once the rough-in is done and before the drywall goes up.