Use the walkthrough to see the finished result
Walk through with the Contractor when there is time to operate the installed equipment and discuss concerns. Bring the agreed plans and product information. Work through the rooms in a consistent order so you do not rely on memory afterward.
Try the everyday features you will use: doors, windows, fixtures, appliances and comfort controls. Ask for an explanation of equipment settings, shutoffs and maintenance. Have qualified people handle technical testing or anything unsafe; the walkthrough is not a substitute for required inspections.
A feature you now wish you had added is different from work the agreement already required. Keep those discussions separate so the punch list stays understandable.
Write a punch list that someone can act on
For each item, identify the room or location, the problem and the agreed response. Add a photo when it makes the issue easier to find. Confirm the person responsible and how you will know it is complete.
Avoid vague entries such as “finish bathroom.” A specific entry could identify a loose handle, a missing finish piece or a damaged surface. When work is corrected, record the follow-up rather than leaving the original list unchanged.
| Field | Example wording |
|---|---|
| Location | Kitchen, cabinet next to refrigerator |
| Observed issue | Door rubs the adjacent panel |
| Agreed response | Adjust and check operation together |
| Follow-up | Contractor to confirm the return date |
This is an example format. It is not a universal definition of acceptable workmanship or a contractual standard.
Collect the final approval record
Ask which official record establishes that the ADU may be used as intended and where to check its status. If there are outstanding corrections, ask what they concern and how completion will be documented. Do not infer occupancy approval from a finished room or a scheduled walkthrough.
Keep the final plans, permit information and completion or occupancy records together. Ask your team to explain any differences between the approved design and the finished work. Read about permits and inspections.
Read the last invoice as a reconciliation
The final invoice should connect to the entire payment history. Compare the original agreement, approved Change Orders, allowance credits or overages, other agreed adjustments and previous payments.
Look for items that have already appeared on an earlier invoice. An allowance bill is supporting evidence; it is not automatically an additional charge for the full amount. Ask how the amount already inside the contract has been credited or applied. See an allowance reconciliation example.
If an item is disputed
Name the exact issue and the document you are relying on. Ask for clarification or correction. Obtain advice before deciding to withhold money or change the agreement’s payment conditions; this guide does not prescribe a holdback percentage.
Understand what payment releases establish
CSLB provides conditional and unconditional forms for both progress and final payments. Use the appropriate form and check the claimant and covered work. A conditional release becomes effective with payment; a Contractor’s release alone does not establish payment to every subcontractor or supplier. CSLB: Conditional and unconditional releases
If a Preliminary Notice, threatened lien or unresolved payment claim remains, get qualified legal advice before assuming the final invoice resolves it. Legal deadlines and the correct response depend on the specific record. Read the notice explanation.
Keep what you will need after the team leaves
Collect the installed equipment information, operating instructions, keys and any agreed warranties. Ask how to report a problem and whom to contact. Keep product model numbers and finish details where you can find them later.
Confirm who is responsible for any agreed return visit. If you will rent the ADU, separately check the requirements for that use, including any local registration or rental rules. Construction handover and starting a rental are different decisions.
For example, the City of Los Angeles housing department explains that adding an ADU may raise rental-regulation questions tied to the existing property. Check the applicable program rather than treating “new ADU” as a complete answer. City of Los Angeles ADU rental information.
Questions about this topic
Which records should I collect before final payment?
Collect the final approvals applicable to the project, the final contract reconciliation and the handover records required by your agreement. Resolve any applicable release questions too. The Step page provides a compact closeout checklist.
Read more: ADU closeoutLink to this answerIs every walkthrough request a punch-list item?
No. Distinguish unfinished or corrective contract work from a new upgrade you are requesting. A new request may need its own agreed price and timing.
Read more: How to read an ADU construction contractLink to this answerWhat if a problem appears after handover?
Keep a clear record, notify the responsible party through the agreed process and seek qualified advice where necessary. Do not assume that a final payment automatically settles every possible later issue.
Read more: How to read an ADU construction contractLink to this answerSources and review notes
Official references checked on . Inline links identify the source for specific statements.
Prepared for PrepareToBuild.info as an editorial draft, assisted by AI. Not yet reviewed by a licensed construction or legal professional. Practical examples are illustrative, not actual quotes, legal terms or completed projects. Confirm requirements with the responsible agency and get qualified advice about your property, contract or finances.