What should be on a kitchen renovation punch list before I make final payment to my NB contractor?

A thorough punch list protects your investment and ensures your kitchen renovation meets professional standards before you release final payment. In New Brunswick, this final inspection is crucial because once you pay in full, getting contractors back for warranty work can be challenging, especially during busy renovation season.

Your punch list should cover every surface, function, and detail. Start with cabinet functionality — open and close every door and drawer multiple times. Doors should align properly, close completely, and stay closed. Drawers should slide smoothly without binding or gaps. Check that all hinges are properly adjusted and soft-close mechanisms work consistently. In NB's dry winter air, cabinet doors can shift slightly, so ensure everything is properly aligned now.

Countertop inspection requires careful attention to seams, edges, and cutouts. Run your hand along all edges to check for chips or rough spots. Examine seams between slabs — they should be nearly invisible and smooth to the touch. Check that sink and cooktop cutouts are properly finished and sealed. For quartz or granite, verify that all support brackets are installed under overhangs greater than 10 inches.

Electrical systems must be fully functional and code-compliant. Test every outlet, switch, and light fixture. Verify GFCI outlets near the sink reset properly. Check that under-cabinet lighting operates smoothly and all connections are secure. If you had electrical work done, ensure you received the electrical inspection certificate from your municipality or Regional Service Commission.

Plumbing functionality extends beyond just turning taps on and off. Run water at full pressure in the sink and check for leaks under the cabinet. Test the dishwasher through a complete cycle and inspect for leaks around connections. If you have a garburator, test it with water running. Check that all shut-off valves under the sink operate properly — you'll need these for future maintenance.

Flooring and backsplash should be examined for installation quality. Look for loose tiles, uneven grout lines, or gaps where the backsplash meets countertops. Check flooring transitions to adjacent rooms — they should be smooth and properly finished. For LVP flooring (popular in NB kitchens), ensure all planks are fully seated and no edges are lifting.

Paint and trim work often reveals a contractor's attention to detail. Check for missed spots, drips, or uneven coverage. Examine caulking around windows, trim, and where countertops meet walls — it should be smooth and consistent. In NB's humidity changes, proper caulking prevents moisture infiltration behind cabinets.

Appliance installation requires verification that everything is level, connected properly, and functioning. Check that the refrigerator is level and doors seal properly. Ensure the range sits flush against countertops with no gaps. Test all oven and cooktop functions. Verify that range hood ventilation actually exhausts outside — recirculating hoods don't handle NB's cooking moisture effectively.

Documentation completion is often overlooked but essential. Ensure you receive all appliance warranties, cabinet care instructions, and paint color information for future touch-ups. If permits were required, verify you have the final inspection certificates. Get warranty information for all work performed and clarify what's covered and for how long.

Don't release final payment until every item is addressed satisfactorily. Most NB contractors retain 10-15% for final payment, giving you leverage to ensure quality completion. Professional contractors appreciate thorough punch lists because it demonstrates you're a serious client who values quality work.

Take photos of any issues and provide written documentation to your contractor. This protects both parties and ensures clear communication about what needs correction before project completion.

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Looking for experienced contractors? The New Brunswick Construction Network connects homeowners with qualified professionals:

• Gionetterenovations
• Thirty Four Renovations