An inspection of a property by a suitably qualified inspector should be non-disruptive and non-invasive and should assess fixtures, fittings and services by way of checks comparable with normal daily use.

It has been approved by an industry-wide technical working group in collaboration with the New Homes Quality Board (NHQB) and its availability is a requirement of the New Homes Quality Code.

The purpose of this Checklist is to assist the home building industry show a commitment to cooperation and transparency in delivering a high-quality standard to every new home. The customer can and should expect their home to be constructed to a high specification and that the approach to the home and surrounding area is safe on the day they move in. The home should be clean and ready for the customer to enjoy and live in safely from day one.

Inspectors should follow the NHQB guidance below when completing the inspection and where it isn’t possible to comply with the guidance make reference to this limitation in the inspection notes:

Please note the following methodology must be used by the inspector
• External walls should be inspected in daylight from a minimum distance of 10m.
• Internal ceiling, wall, paintwork finishes, mastic and sealing should be inspected in daylight from a minimum distance of 2m and not shining a light on the surface. Where no natural daylight is available, inspection should be carried out with a single light source.
• Cupboards, wardrobes, surfaces and fitted furniture (including kitchens and bathrooms) should be inspected in daylight from a distance of 0.5m.
• Glazing should be inspected in daylight from a minimum distance of 2m (laminated or toughened glass from 3m) and not shining a light on the surface, with fine scratches less than 25mm and bubbles or blisters if they are neither obtrusive or bunched, being acceptable.
• All checks on the property unless otherwise stated will be visual from the ground [in the case of exterior] or from internal floors [in the case of the interior].
• Loft spaces and eaves should only be checked where safely accessible to do so.

External common parts (where relevant)

The Inspector should assume that the common parts include all areas beyond the confines of the subject property where there is no evidence to suggest the area is demised to a different property, and which are commonly included within a maintenance/ repair agreement associated with properties of a similar type.