Buying a new home is exciting, and as your closing day approaches, one of the most important milestones is your Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI).
If you’ve never purchased a newly built home before, you may be wondering what happens during a PDI, what you’re supposed to look for, and how it fits into your Tarion warranty. The good news? It’s not a test, and you don’t need to know everything. Your builder will guide you through the process but understanding what to expect will help you feel more confident and prepared.
What is a Pre-Delivery Inspection?
In Ontario, a Pre-Delivery Inspection is a mandatory walkthrough completed before you take possession of your new home.
Your builder will walk through the home with you, explain how your home’s major systems operate, and document any items that are:
- Damaged
- Missing
- Incomplete
- Not operating properly
- Unable to be inspected at the time (for example, due to weather or construction access)
These items are recorded on the official PDI Form, which becomes an important record of your home’s condition before you move in.
Why is the PDI Important?
Many people assume the PDI is simply about finding flaws.
In reality, it’s also your first opportunity to become familiar with your new home.
During your inspection, your builder should explain:
- How your heating and cooling systems operate
- How to locate important shut-off valves and electrical panels
- Ventilation systems and humidity control
- Plumbing fixtures and maintenance
- General operation and care of your home
Understanding these systems is important not only for everyday living, but because proper operation and maintenance can affect your warranty coverage.
What Should You Look For?
While your builder is leading the walkthrough, take your time and inspect each room carefully. Some common items to check include:
Interior Finishes
- Paint touch-ups or drywall imperfections
- Scratches on flooring
- Chips in countertops
- Cracked or loose tiles
- Damage to cabinets or trim
Doors & Windows
- Open and close properly
- Lock securely
- Window screens are installed
- Weatherstripping is in place
Plumbing
- Faucets run properly
- Toilets flush correctly
- Sinks drain properly
- No visible leaks
Electrical
- Light switches work
- Fixtures are installed
- Outlets function properly
Exterior (where accessible)
- Brickwork or siding
- Driveway condition
- Grading and landscaping
- Exterior doors and railings
Don’t worry if you don’t notice everything. The goal isn’t to find every tiny cosmetic detail-it’s to identify anything that is damaged, incomplete, missing, or not functioning as intended. Tarion also provides a comprehensive homeowner checklist to help guide your inspection.
What if Something Isn’t Finished?
It’s completely normal for some items to require attention before or after you move in. If something is incomplete or cannot be inspected during the PDI-for example, due to seasonal weather-it should simply be noted on the PDI Form.
Recording these items creates an official record and helps ensure they’re addressed through the appropriate process.
Is the PDI the Same as a Home Inspection?
No.
A Pre-Delivery Inspection is not the same as a resale home inspection.
The PDI is a required walkthrough between you and your builder that documents the condition of the home before possession and introduces you to its systems and operation.
Some homeowners also choose to have a professional home inspector attend the PDI or act as their designate, which is permitted in Ontario.
How Does Tarion Fit In?
Every new home built by a licensed builder in Ontario is backed by the Tarion warranty program. While the PDI itself is conducted by your builder, the completed PDI Form becomes an important reference should warranty items arise later.
It’s also worth remembering that your PDI isn’t your only opportunity to report concerns. Ontario’s new home warranty program includes additional warranty periods after you take possession, allowing homeowners to report eligible warranty items discovered after moving in.
Tips for a Successful PDI
Before your appointment, a little preparation goes a long way.
We recommend:
- Reviewing Tarion‘s Pre-Delivery Inspection Checklist before your appointment so you know what to expect and which items to look for during the walkthrough.
- Reviewing your purchase agreement so you know what finishes and upgrades you
selected. - Allowing enough time-don’t feel rushed through the walkthrough
- Bringing your phone to take photos and notes.
- Asking questions about maintenance and home systems.
- Focusing on the home’s condition rather than furniture placement or decorating ideas.
- Keeping a copy of your completed PDI Form for your records.
Your First Step Toward Homeownership
Your Pre-Delivery Inspection marks the transition from construction site to future home. It’s an opportunity to learn, ask questions, and ensure your home is ready for possession. By understanding the process and knowing what to expect, you’ll be able to move in with greater confidence and peace of mind.
At Lancaster Homes, we guide homeowners through every stage of the homebuying journey-including the PDI-because we believe an informed homeowner is a confident homeowner.