âRoom-by-Room Defect Inspection Checklist A systematic room-by-room approach ensures you donât miss hidden defects. Move clockwise through your flat, starting from the main door.
BTO Defect Checklist for Living Room BTO Defect Checklist for Living Room
BTO Defect Checklist for Living Room
Area / Category
Things to Check
What and How to Check For
Walls & Ceilings
Paintwork, plaster finish
Shine torchlight at a low angle to spot uneven paint, cracks, or hollow plaster (glancing light method).See: Spot cracks with torchlight
Flooring (Tiles)
Tiles, grouting
Tap with a marble or screwdriver handle for hollow sounds; grout lines should be even and clean. For flooring in Living Room and Bedroom, some flats come with tiles.See: Test floors with a marble
Flooring (Vinyl)
Planks, seams
Check for lifting edges, uneven seams, or bubbles. Ensure planks sit flush without gaps. For flooring in Living Rooms and Bedrooms, some flats come with vinyl flooring instead of tiles.See: Check for uneven or raised vinyl edges
Windows
Frames, panels, latches, glass, seals, weep holes, gasket rubber, handles, locking mechanism
Opens/closes smoothly; locks secure; glass scratch-free; sealant intact; gasket rubber in place and not brittle; weep holes unblocked with no condensation or cracks; ensure no rattling or misalignment.See: Check alignment
Doors
Hinges, handles, locks, door swing, frame alignment, scratches
Opens smoothly without scraping the floor; hinges firm and quiet; locks turn easily; ensure door swings fully without obstruction; check for scratches or dents on door and frame alignment.See: Check alignment
Electrical Points
Sockets, switches, ceiling points, light fittings, ethernet socket
Plug in charger or socket tester to confirm each outlet works; test that switches correspond to correct lights; check for loose fittings, flickering bulbs, and working light switches; verify ethernet socket cover and fit.See: Test outlets
BTO Defect Checklist for Kitchen BTO Defect Checklist for Kitchen
BTO Defect Checklist for Kitchen
Area / Category
Things to Check
What and How to Check For
Sink & Plumbing
Taps, under-sink pipes
Turn on tap; check water pressure and leaks; look for damp areas or stains under pipes.See: Check plumbing
Wall & Floor
Tiles, sealant
Grout lines even; sealant neat; no hollow sound when tapped.See: Check for hollow tiles
Flooring
Evenness, scratches, chips, hollowness
Check for level flooring; look for scratches, dents, or uneven tiles; tap with marble to detect hollow spots.See: Test floors with a marble
Skirting
Scratches, gaps, silicone (above/below)
Inspect skirting for scratches or cracks; ensure silicone lines are continuous and flush against wall and floor.See: Check skirting alignment
Windows (including Yard)
Frames, panels, gasket rubber, opening/closing
Open and close windows smoothly; check for scratches, firm locking, intact rubber gaskets, and clean weep holes.See: Check alignment
Doors
Bifold door panels, hinges, scratches, opening/closing
Ensure bifold doors slide or fold smoothly; hinges secure; no scraping on the floor; panels aligned with no surface scratches.See: Check alignment
Paintwork
Ceiling, switches, door frames
Ensure paintwork is even, no drips, stains, or patchiness; check around corners, switches, and ceiling for neat finish.See: Spot cracks with torchlight
Electrical Points
Power outlets, switches
Plug in a charger or socket tester; ensure outlets and switches function correctly; covers flush with wall.See: Test outlets
Appliances
Kitchen hob, hood, fridge, oven
Verify power connections; turn on briefly (if possible) to confirm functionality and correct installation.See: Check appliance installation
Gas Valve
Cap, location
Ensure valve is capped and leak-free; check that thereâs no smell of gas or signs of corrosion.See: Check gas connection
Floor Trap
Cover, drainage
Pour water to confirm drainage is smooth and unobstructed; ensure trap cover is fitted and odour-free.See: Test drainage flow
BTO Defect Checklist for Bathrooms BTO Defect Checklist for Bathrooms
BTO Defect Checklist for Bathrooms
Area / Category
Things to Check
What and How to Check For
Walls & Floors
Tiles, grout, sealant
Even surface, no cracks; grout lines sealed; sealant applied neatly.See: Test floors with a marble
Drainage
Floor trap gradient
Pour bucket of water; it should flow quickly toward the trap, no ponding.See: Check plumbing and drainage
Plumbing
Taps, shower heads, toilet bowls
Run all fixtures; check for leaks, steady pressure, and proper flushing.See: Check plumbing and drainage
Waterproofing
Corners, edges
Inspect upturns and edges for sealant integrity and no moisture patches.
Doors
Hinges, handles, locks, door swing, frame alignment, scratches
Opens smoothly without scraping the floor; hinges firm and quiet; locks turn easily; ensure door swings fully without obstruction; check for scratches or dents on door and frame alignment.See: Check alignment
BTO Defect Checklist for Bedrooms BTO Defect Checklist for Bedrooms
BTO Defect Checklist for Bedrooms
Area / Category
Things to Check
What and How to Check For
Walls & Ceilings
Paintwork, plaster finish
Shine torchlight at a low angle to spot uneven paint, cracks, or hollow plaster (glancing light method).See: Spot cracks with torchlight
Flooring (Tiles)
Tiles, grouting
Tap with a marble or screwdriver handle for hollow sounds; grout lines should be even and clean. For flooring in Living Rooms and Bedrooms, some flats come with tiles.See: Test floors with a marble
Flooring (Vinyl)
Planks, seams
Check for lifting edges, uneven seams, or bubbles. Ensure planks sit flush without gaps. For flooring in Living Rooms and Bedrooms, some flats come with vinyl flooring instead of tiles.See: Check for uneven or raised vinyl edges
Skirting
Scratches, gaps, silicone (above/below)
Inspect for scratches, uneven joints, or gaps; ensure silicone sealant lines are neat and continuous along both top and bottom edges.See: Check skirting alignment
Windows
Frames, panels, latches, glass, seals, weep holes, gasket rubber, handles, locking mechanism
Opens/closes smoothly; locks secure; glass scratch-free; sealant intact; gasket rubber in place and not brittle; weep holes unblocked with no condensation or cracks; ensure no rattling or misalignment.See: Check alignment
Doors
Hinges, handles, locks, door swing, frame alignment, scratches
Opens smoothly without scraping the floor; hinges firm and quiet; locks turn easily; ensure door swings fully without obstruction; check for scratches or dents on door and frame alignment.See: Check alignment
BTO Defect Checklist for Service Yard / Balcony BTO Defect Checklist for Service Yard / Balcony
BTO Defect Checklist for Service Yard / Balcony
Area / Category
Things to Check
What and How to Check For
Walls & Ceilings
Paintwork, cracks
Shine torchlight diagonally to check for patchy paint, stains, or hairline cracks. Ensure even coverage and no watermarks.See: Spot cracks with torchlight
Floor Trap
Drainage
Pour water; ensure no ponding, slow drainage, or backflow. Trap cover should sit flush with the floor and not rattle when stepped on.See: Check plumbing and drainage
Flooring (Tiles)
Scratches, hollowness
Check for chips or cracks; tap gently with a marble or screwdriver handle. Hollow sounds indicate poor adhesion.See: Test floors with a marble
Railing
Tightness, rust, paintwork
Shake lightly; must be stable, rust-free, and securely anchored. Check that paintwork is even, with no rust stains or peeling.See: Check railing stability
Laundry Rack
Extension, locks
Extend fully; locks should hold weight and retract smoothly. Ensure thereâs no obstruction when sliding or folding.See: Test laundry rack
Sliding Door
Glass, frame, tracks, alignment
Open and close smoothly without noise or scraping. Check glass for scratches or cracks, frame for dents, and ensure tracks are free of debris.See: Check door alignment
Electrical Points
Power sockets, balcony light
Plug in a charger or socket tester; confirm outlets and switches work. Check balcony light for stable illumination (no flicker).See: Test outlets
BTO Defect Checklist for Bomb Shelter / Storeroom BTO Defect Checklist for Bomb Shelter / Storeroom
BTO Defect Checklist for Bomb Shelter / Storeroom
Area / Category
Things to Check
What and How to Check For
Door
Lock, hinges
Opens and seals smoothly; rubber gasket intact; no rust.See: Check alignment
Walls & Ceiling
Paint, plaster
Even finish; no cracks or bubbling paint.See: Spot cracks with torchlight
Ventilation
Louvres
Air vents free of dust and obstructions.
Flooring
Tiles
Even and clean; no hollow spots when tapped.See: Test floors with a marble
BTO Defect Checklist for Miscellaneous Areas BTO Defect Checklist for Miscellaneous Areas
BTO Defect Checklist for Miscellaneous Areas
Area / Category
Things to Check
What and How to Check For
Corridor / Entrance
Gradient, tiles
Pour water to test no pooling; tiles aligned, no cracks.See: Test floors with a marble
Threshold
Flatness, level
Level transition between rooms; no tripping hazards.See: Check alignment
Letterbox
Lock, paint
Lock turns smoothly; paint intact with no rust.
âMust-Knows Before Defect Checks Before you start marking walls or testing sockets, it helps to understand the basics: when to inspect , how much it costs , and why this process matters for every new homeowner.
When Is the Best Time to Do a BTO Defect Check? The best time to carry out your BTO defect check is immediately after you collect your keys , before starting any renovation work.
At this stage, your flat is still empty, which makes it much easier to spot uneven flooring, hollow tiles, or small leaks without furniture or fittings getting in the way.
Early inspection also helps avoid blame later on. Qanvast, HDB )
How Much Does a BTO Defect Check Cost? A DIY BTO defect check costs nothing but time and effort, ideal for homeowners who are patient and detail-oriented. Some interior designers also include basic defect checks at no additional cost when you engage them for renovation. trusted and suitable IDs on HomeMatch , all vetted for quality, reviews, and CaseTrust accreditation.
However, if you prefer a professional eye, most defect inspection companies in Singapore charge between $200 and $500 , depending on the level of service.
BTO Defect Inspection Cost Comparison
BTO Defect Inspection Cost Comparison
Type
Typical Cost
Includes
DIY
Free
Basic tools like painterâs tape, torchlight, marble, notebook
Professional (Basic)
$200â$300
Visual checks, basic report
Professional (Premium)
$400â$600
Thermal imaging, moisture detection, photo report, BSC liaison (Lemonfridge ).
Hiring a pro might seem like an extra expense, but even one overlooked plumbing issue can cost thousands to fix post-renovation.
Is a BTO Defect Check Really Necessary? Yes, and hereâs why.mass construction means workmanship defects are still common. These can include:
Hollow or uneven tiles Poor paint finish Leaky taps or floor traps Misaligned doors and windows Faulty wiring or weak water pressure Skipping your BTO defect check can lead to renovation disputes, especially if renovators later discover underlying structural issues, and might also result in unforeseen rectification costs down the road.Renonation, PropertyGuru )
Can you hire someone to do a professional BTO defect inspection? Yes. Many companies in Singapore provide HDB defect inspection services :
Basic packages ($200â$300) for visual checks.Premium packages ($400â$600) include advanced tools like thermal imaging, moisture detection, and detailed reports (Lemonfridge ).Professional inspectors often:
Spot defects homeowners miss. Provide photographic evidence. Liaise with HDBâs Building Service Centre (BSC) for rectification. Be Thorough If You DIY (Reddit) Redditor VioletCalico highlights a common Reddit sentiment: defect inspections can be DIY if youâre meticulous, but many still prefer pros for peace of mind.
Cutting Corners Costs More, Whereas A Trusted Professional Saves Time And Stress (Reddit) Another Redditor SG_wormsbot shared a news article, stating that not all inspectors are equal, and quality varies. This is why many homeowners weigh the cost carefully, because a pro inspection is only worthwhile if itâs thorough.
Pros Spot What HDB Contractors Often Miss (Reddit) Reddit user kiatme explained how professional inspections often mirror DIY checks : the main difference is experience and thoroughness.
HomeMatchâs ID Pro-Tip: Always prioritise hiring CaseTrust-accredited interior designers and contractors Can You Renovate Before Your BTO Defects Are Fixed by HDB? No, and this may be one of the biggest mistakes new homeowners make.void your DLP coverage , since HDB may argue that your renovator caused the damage.
Always wait until your defect list has been inspected and repaired by HDBâs appointed contractors before handing the unit to your interior designer and renovation contractor.Qanvast )
âDefects Liability Period (DLP) and How to Submit Your Defect Report to HDB What Is the Defects Liability Period? You have 7 days after key collection to submit your initial defect list. You are covered by a 12-month Defects Liability Period (DLP) starting from your key collection date. During this time, HDBâs contractors are responsible for rectifying workmanship or structural defects. Think of it as your flatâs warranty period! (Dollars and Sense ).
Starting your renovation before resolving defects can cause serious complications later and in many cases, lead to unnecessary project delays.
To understand what typically causes these setbacks, check out our explainer on why renovation delays are so common in Singapore .
What Happens If You Miss the DLP? Once the 12-month period ends, repairs become your responsibility.Qanvast ).
Cosmetic issues (like paint colour preference), damage caused by you or renovation work, and wear and tear after the DLP are usually excluded. Only workmanship defects, structural faults, or major installation failures are covered (Qanvast ).
How to Report BTO Defects to HDB Mark your BTO defects with tape so the HDB contractors can find them.Fill the Defects Feedback Form (given at key collection).Submit to your estateâs Building Service Centre (BSC) , or submit online here .Keep a copy and photo records for accountability and proof.Follow up . Rectification typically takes less than two weeks .Keep a copy of your submission and photo records, because theyâre your proof if disputes arise later.
Hereâs how the official process works ; itâs pretty straightforward once you know the timeline.
Once your inspectionâs done, you can start planning your home interior with confidence.
If youâre still deciding who to work with, explore our guide on how to find interior designers in Singapore
âDetailed Defect Checking Tips Use painterâs tape or Post-its to mark every visible defect clearly Bring a roll of painterâs tape or a stack of Post-its to label issues as you go.Building Service Centre (BSC) . (Source: HDB )
Why it helps:
Clear identification of defects such as cracks or uneven plaster. Prevents confusion and ensures all defects are properly addressed. Traceability for your joint inspection with the BSC. Safe for walls: Use painterâs tape or Post-its to avoid damage. Best practices:
Use different colours to mark severity (e.g. blue for minor, red for major). Number each defect so it matches your Defects Feedback Form.Write a short label directly on the tape or note e.g. âWall crackâ or âUneven tile.â Take photos of each marked spot for your personal records. Try to finish marking and submitting your Defects Feedback Form to the BSC within 30 days of key collection , before starting renovation work.
HomeMatchâs ID Pro-Tip: Use one colour for major issues (such as leaks or misaligned doors) and another for smaller ones like chipped paint.Itâll make your BTO defect checklist easier to reference when youâre ready to file your report.
âBring a torchlight to catch uneven paint, cracks, and hidden stains Bringing a torchlight is a crucial step in any BTO defect inspection . glancing light technique , helps reveal imperfections that normal daylight might miss. (Dulux )
How glancing light works: When a flashlight is directed across a wall or ceiling at a low angle, it creates contrast and shadow that make subtle inconsistencies visible.
On a smooth wall, the light reflects evenly. On an uneven surface, the beam highlights bumps, dips, or cracks through tiny shadows. Defects you can reveal with a torchlight:
Patchy or uneven paint: Different paint layers reflect light differently. Angled light reveals overlapping edges or rough transitions.Hairline cracks: Fine cracks invisible in natural light appear as dark lines when caught by the beam.Uneven plaster: A wall that looks âflatâ in daylight may appear rippled under angled light.Scratches or nicks: Shine the light across windows, countertops, or tiles to spot fine surface damage.Best practices for using a torchlight effectively:
Combine natural light with torchlight for full visibility. Turn off main lights to enhance shadow contrast. Move the light slowly along walls, ceilings, and floors. Even small flaws, when left unchecked, can affect your BTO renovation finish later, so itâs worth catching them early. (Lemon8 )
âRoll a marble across the floor to test for hollow or uneven tiles Rolling a marble is a simple yet effective way to check for uneven flooring in your new BTO flat .bitarealty Instagram )
How the marble test works:
Unevenness: A flat floor lets the marble roll smoothly. If it stops suddenly or changes direction, that spot isnât level.Sloping: If the marble rolls consistently toward one side without being pushed, the subfloor may not have been properly levelled.Visual aid: If the marble rolls dramatically, record it on video! Itâs an easy way to show clear evidence to the Building Service Centre (BSC) during your report.Checking for hollow tiles:
A hollow sound when the marble rolls over a tile suggests poor bonding between the tile and subfloor. For confirmation, gently tap tiles using a coin, tapping rod, or the handle of a screwdriver.A solid, high-pitched sound = good adhesion. A hollow, low-pitched sound = likely void underneath. These checks complement each other and help verify whether the issue is minor or structural. (StackedHomes ) Limitations of the marble test:
The test shows symptoms , not causes , because it wonât reveal why a floor is uneven. Use it alongside a spirit level or straight edge ruler for better accuracy and documentation. (Renonation )
Use a spirit level or ruler to confirm alignment Checking wall, door frame, and countertop alignment is one of the most important parts of your BTO defect inspection . your home renovation , especially when working with interior designers or renovation contractors on custom carpentry.
Why straightness matters:
Aesthetics: Even a small tilt can make your carpentry or countertops appear crooked. Misalignment is especially noticeable on long or flat surfaces. (FineHomeBuilding )Proper installation: Cabinets, shelves, and countertops need to be perfectly level and plumb (vertically straight) to ensure theyâre secure. If a wall is out of plumb, your installer may need to add shims or fillers, which can increase renovation costs. (Yellow Brick Home )Preventing gaps: Uneven walls or counters can cause visible gaps between the surface and your built-ins, trapping dirt or moisture. (Pelican )Door and window function: Frames that arenât square can cause jamming or poor sealing when opened and closed.How to use a spirit level effectively:
Place the tool Rest the spirit level flat against the wall, door frame, or countertop you want to check.Wait for the bubble The bubble inside the vial should settle in the centre between the indicator lines. That means the surface is straight.Check both ways Most spirit levels have multiple vials, so use them to check for both horizontal (level ) and vertical (plumb ) alignment. (Next Day Inspect )Use a long ruler or straight edge For longer surfaces, use a straight edge together with your spirit level to assess flatness across the entire span. (KB Cabinet Making )VIDEO
Pour a bucket of water to test bathroom and balcony drainage Pouring a bucket of water on your bathroom and balcony floors is one of the simplest yet most revealing steps in a BTO defect inspection .Â
This quick test can uncover issues with improper floor gradients, slow drainage, or potential pipe blockages that arenât obvious at first glance.
How to perform the drainage test:
Prepare your tools Bring a bucket and make sure your water supply is turned on.Pour the water Start from the corners furthest from the floor trap and pour a generous amount of water evenly across the surface.Observe the flow Watch how the water moves. On a properly sloped floor, it should flow smoothly and consistently toward the floor trap without leaving puddles.Listen for bubbles As it drains, listen for gurgling or bubbling sounds. These can indicate air pressure imbalances or partial blockages in the pipes.Inspect for pooling Once drained, check if any water remains. Persistent puddles, especially in corners, suggest the floor gradient isnât correct and should be reported.Common drainage issues and what they mean:
Water pooling Indicates an incorrect floor gradient. Left unfixed, it can cause hygiene issues or long-term water damage.Slow drainage Suggests partial blockages or improper installation in the floor trap.Backflow or bubbling Usually linked to air pressure problems in the drainage pipes.If drainage issues are left unresolved, they can cause moisture build-up and secondary problems like mold or tile detachment, so itâs worth being thorough at this stage. (UncleDefectSG )
Test every power point, light switch, and pipe for hidden faults Electrical and plumbing issues might seem small at first, but they can easily turn into bigger renovation headaches later, especially once your fittings or built-ins are installed.
Start with your power outlets. Plug in a simple device like your phone charger and test every socket in the flat. off position looks consistent across the board.Next, check your lighting. Make sure your light fixtures work when switched on, and that the switches correspond to the right lights. Donât forget your plumbing. Run every tap and let the water flow for a few minutes. Then flush the toilets; you can drop in a few pieces of tissue to test water pressure and drainage. HomeMatchâs ID Pro-Tip: Â Turn on your water supply and electricity before starting your DIY BTO defect inspection so you can properly test everything. (Qanvast )Take timestamped photos for every defect you identify Taking timestamped photos of every defect is one of the most important parts of your DIY BTO defect inspection . HDB officially recommends keeping photo records for follow-up and verification during the Defects Liability Period (DLP) . (Source: HomeTrust )
Why timestamped photos are essential:
Timestamped images clearly show the nature, location, and timing of each defect, confirming they existed at the time of inspection. The BSC and HDB contractors use your photos to identify issues. Close-up shots capture detail, while wide shots provide location context. If a contractor later claims a defect was caused after renovation, your timestamped record will show otherwise. Use your photos to compare before and after repairs, ensuring defects are properly fixed before you sign off. (Nemmadi ) How to take effective defect photos:
Use timestamps: Most smartphones let you add timestamps automatically. If not, download a free camera app that adds both time and location.Take two photos per defect: A close-up to show the defectâs details. A wide shot to show its location within the room. Label the area: Place painterâs tape or a Post-it near the defect with a short note (e.g. âUneven tile, #14â). This makes matching photos to your checklist easier.Use good lighting: Shine a torchlight at an angle to highlight cracks or uneven surfaces. (UncleDefectSG )HomeMatchâs ID Pro-Tip: Store your photos in a dedicated album or cloud folder titled âBTO Defects â [Unit Number]â and back it up before submission. This keeps everything organised for easy reference during the joint inspection or rectification follow-up.
Keep a written log of all defects and their locations Keeping a written log of every defect you spot, along with its exact location, is an indispensable part of a DIY BTO defect inspection . It complements your photo records and helps ensure a smoother rectification process with your estateâs Building Service Centre (BSC) .
Why keeping a detailed log matters:
Written notes provide context to your photos and help prevent misunderstandings. For instance, noting âBedroom 2 â uneven tile near window â Photo 24â leaves no room for confusion. During your walk-through with the BSC officer and HDB contractor, a precise, room-by-room log helps ensure no defect is missed. It makes the process faster and more professional. Your written log, paired with timestamped photos, documents the flatâs exact condition at key collection. This is crucial if disputes arise about whether damage occurred before or after renovation. As HDB contractors carry out repairs, your list doubles as a checklist. You can tick off fixed items and flag anything that remains unresolved. A detailed log gives you full visibility and control over the process, protecting you from unexpected costs and ensuring that your new home meets the standards you were promised. HomeMatchâs ID Pro-Tip: Use a simple spreadsheet, notebook, or phone notes app. Record:Description (and photo number) Status (reported, verified, rectified) This method ensures your inspection remains systematic and easy to reference during follow-ups.
Bring a powerbank to keep your phone running throughout the inspection Your phone will handle light, photos, and note-taking, so expect the battery to drain quickly.DIY HDB defect inspections take around two to three hours; a powerbank ensures you donât lose your photos or notes midway through.
H3: Bring a partner to help you spot and record defects
Two pairs of eyes are always better than one.BTO defect checklist .
Check for uneven or raised vinyl edges Ensuring your vinyl flooring is flat, properly sealed, and securely adhered is key to maintaining both aesthetics and durability during your BTO defect inspection .
A professional vinyl floor should feel even underfoot, with planks or sheets that sit flush without visible gaps or curling edges.
Why it matters Appearance: Lifted or uneven vinyl edges break the smooth surface finish and can be visible even under normal lighting.Safety: Raised edges may catch on feet or furniture, increasing the risk of tripping or tearing.Water protection: Poorly sealed seams allow water to seep through, causing warping, adhesive failure, and mold growth.Longevity: Well-installed vinyl maintains its shape and adhesion longer, reducing the need for early repairs.How to check vinyl flooring effectively Inspect under angled light Stand at a low angle to the floor and look across the surface. Use natural light or a torchlight to spot raised seams, bubbles, or lifting edges.Focus on edges and door thresholds Check transitions near skirting boards, corners, and room joins. These are common weak spots where vinyl may curl or detach.Perform a gentle tap or step test Tap with a marble or lightly step on suspect areas. A hollow or âspongyâ sound can suggest gaps or poor bonding beneath the surface.
Assess skirting alignment and condition Skirting boards form the finishing edge between the wall and floor; they protect walls from impact and conceal gaps. BTO defect inspection , ensure all skirting pieces are securely installed, properly aligned, and evenly sealed with silicone.
Uneven or poorly sealed skirting can trap moisture, hide wall gaps, and cause unsightly finishes after renovation.
Why it matters Aesthetics: Misaligned skirting breaks the clean line between wall and floor, making rooms appear uneven.Moisture prevention: Proper silicone sealing prevents water from seeping behind skirting, especially in kitchens or bathrooms.Durability: Gaps or poor adhesion can lead to detachment over time or cracking along edges.Ease of cleaning: Smooth, continuous skirting lines prevent dirt accumulation at wall joints.How to check skirting effectively
Visual inspection Look along the wall under natural or torchlight. Check for visible gaps between wall and skirting or uneven height alignment. Silicone sealing Examine both top and bottom edges for neat silicone lines, no cracks, gaps, or missing sealant. Check appliance installation and functionality Your built-in and freestanding kitchen appliances, such as the hob, hood, oven, and fridge , must be installed correctly for both performance and safety. Faulty alignment, loose wiring, or improper ventilation can cause long-term issues.
How to check appliance installation effectively Visual and alignment check Ensure all appliances sit level and flush with surrounding cabinetry or countertop edges. Connection check Confirm electrical plugs fit snugly into outlets; look for secure gas hose connections for hobs. Power-on test Turn on briefly to verify functionality, hob ignition, hood suction, oven heating, fridge light and cooling. Ventilation and clearance Check that appliances have adequate space for heat dissipation and no blocked vents. Sealing and finish Ensure edges around built-in appliances are sealed neatly, with no gaps or visible wiring. Inspecting your gas connection and valve safety The gas valve is a critical safety feature that controls gas flow to your kitchen hob. During your DIY BTO defect inspection , confirm itâs installed securely, properly capped, and completely leak-free.
A loose or leaking gas connection poses serious fire and health risks.
How to check gas connection safely Visual check Ensure the gas valve is capped tightly when not in use and located in an accessible area. Leak test Smell near the valve area; there should be no gas odour. Optionally, apply a mild soapy water solution to joints; bubbling indicates a leak (wipe clean after). Connection inspection If a hob is installed, ensure the gas hose is properly attached and secured with a clamp. â
Check carpentry alignment and condition Built-in carpentry such as wardrobes, cabinets, and shelves should be properly aligned, secure, and free from scratches or uneven gaps.
How to check carpentry effectively Visual alignment check Stand at eye level and check if cabinet doors, drawers, and wardrobe panels line up evenly. The gap between doors should be uniform on all sides. Open and close test Open each door and drawer fully; movement should be smooth and silent. Doors should not scrape or rebound when closed. Check hinges and screws Hinges should sit flush and feel firm. Note any loose screws.. Inspect surfaces Check interior and exterior panels for scratches, dents, chips, or peeling laminate. Ensure corners and joints are sealed neatly. Level and flush test Use a ruler or spirit level to confirm doors and shelves are straight and flush with one another. Locks and handles Handles should turn smoothly; locks should engage easily and sit flush against the surface. Testing skirting alignment and condition Skirting boards form the finishing edge between the floor and wall. During your BTO defect inspection , make sure skirting is securely fixed, evenly aligned, and neatly sealed, as poor workmanship here often causes visible gaps or water seepage later.
How to check skirting effectively Visual alignment Look along the wall under natural or torchlight. Skirting should form a straight, continuous line with no visible height variations. Silicone sealant Check both top and bottom edges. Sealant should be neat, continuous, and free of gaps, bubbles, or cracks. Surface condition Run your hand along the skirting to detect scratches, paint drips, or rough spots. Corners and joints Ensure corners are tightly joined with no overlapping or gaps at mitre joints. Inspect balcony railing stability and paint finish Balcony and service yard railings are essential safety barriers that must be structurally secure, rust-free, and evenly coated with paint. firmly anchored , shows no corrosion , and has a smooth, consistent finish .
How to check railing effectively Perform a shake test Hold the top bar and shake gently; it should feel solid with no movement.Inspect for rust and paint condition Look for orange rust spots, bubbling, or peeling paint, especially around welds and joints.Check anchoring points Confirm posts are securely fixed with no visible gaps at base or wall joints.Examine screws and joints Fasteners must be covered with paint and free from rust or looseness.Check for straightness and height Railings should appear even and aligned throughout.Check balcony door alignment Sliding balcony doors are exposed to outdoor elements and frequent movement, making proper alignment crucial for smooth operation and long-term durability. door slides effortlessly , the locks engage properly , and the tracks are clean and level .
Why it matters Ease of use: Poor alignment causes jamming, scraping, or difficulty locking and unlocking.Weather protection: Misaligned doors can leave small gaps, allowing wind or rainwater to enter.Noise and insulation: Proper seals reduce noise infiltration and prevent air leaks that affect energy efficiency.Durability: An unbalanced door strains rollers and hinges, leading to premature wear.How to check balcony door alignment effectively Open and close test Slide the door fully open and closed; it should move smoothly without grinding or sticking. Listen for squeaks or scraping noises.Track inspection Check that the top and bottom tracks are free of debris, rust, or damage. Run a finger along to ensure they are even and clean.Visual alignment Stand at the side and view the door edge-on. It should sit parallel to the frame, without visible tilting or misalignment.Seal and lock check When closed, the door should seal tightly without gaps at the edges. Locks should engage smoothly without excessive force.Glass and frame condition Inspect for scratches, cracks, or dents. Ensure glass panels are clean, intact, and the rubber gaskets or weather strips are securely fitted.
âInspect Once, Move In Stress-Free Completing your BTO defect checklist may take half a day, but it ensures your home is safe, functional, and renovation-ready.
By spotting defects early, you save thousands in potential repairs and avoid future disputes.
HomeMatchâs Pro-Tip: Use one colour tape for major issues and another for cosmetic flaws. Back up your photo log in a shared Google Drive folder. Submit your report within 30 days of key collection before any renovation starts. Download your free printable BTO Defect Checklist PDF
