Finishing a renovation is always good news. After weeks of construction, dust, and changes, it’s time to enjoy the results. But before declaring the job complete, there’s one thing you should do: check that all the home’s systems are working properly.
After all, a renovation isn’t truly finished just because the walls are painted or the furniture is in place. Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and other systems must be properly installed and operating safely.
Here’s what you should check when a renovation is finished to avoid surprises down the road.
Check the Electrical System
The electrical system is one of the most important aspects, especially if outlets, switches, or light fixtures were replaced during the renovation, or if the system was expanded.
You should verify that all outlets and switches are working properly, that no lights are flickering, and that the various circuits are functioning normally.
It’s also important to inspect the electrical panel and verify that its safety devices are properly installed.
If new appliances or equipment that increase electricity consumption were added during the renovation, it is especially advisable to ensure that the system is capable of handling them.
Check the Plumbing
Another aspect we shouldn’t overlook is the plumbing system.
After a renovation, it’s a good idea to inspect faucets, drains, and connections to ensure there are no leaks or water loss. We should also pay attention to water pressure and make sure all water outlets are working properly.
A small, unnoticed leak can eventually lead to moisture damage to walls, ceilings, or furniture. That’s why detecting any problem as soon as possible can save us from a much bigger problem down the line.
Check the HVAC System
If an HVAC system was installed or modified during the renovation, it’s also important to verify that it’s functioning properly.
Air conditioning, heating, or geothermal systems must be properly installed and set up to operate efficiently.
We shouldn’t just check that the unit turns on. It’s also important to make sure it operates correctly, maintains the desired temperature, and doesn’t produce any unusual noises, odors, or behavior.
A proper installation also helps improve comfort and prevent unnecessary energy consumption.
Check the Hot Water System
If the renovation has affected the hot water system, it warrants a specific inspection.
Verify that the water reaches the proper temperature, that there are no leaks, and that the system operates normally at all points in the home.
If a new water heater, boiler, or hot water system has been installed, it’s advisable to check its operation and settings before considering the renovation complete.
Check Before Closing Walls and Ceilings
There’s a simple rule that can prevent many problems: anything that’s hidden should be checked before it’s covered up.
Pipes, cables, connections, and other components of the systems may be hidden behind walls, ceilings, or drop ceilings. Once the work is finished, accessing them can be much more difficult.
That’s why, during a renovation, it’s essential that the plumbing and electrical work be done correctly and that any potential issues be detected before the structural elements are closed off.
What if something isn’t working as it should?
If, after finishing a renovation, we discover a faulty outlet, a leak, a loss of pressure, an appliance that isn’t cooling properly, or any other problem, we shouldn’t put off addressing it.
The sooner a problem is detected, the easier it will be to find the source and fix it before it affects other parts of the home.
Furthermore, after a major renovation, a professional inspection can be a good way to verify that the systems have been properly installed and adapted to the home’s current needs.
Roscam
A renovated home should be attractive and functional, but also safe and efficient. That’s why inspecting the systems upon completion of a renovation is just as important as checking the finishes.
Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and hot water systems are part of our daily lives, and when they work properly, we often don’t even think about them.
At Roscam, we believe that a good renovation must be accompanied by installations that are well-executed and built to last. Because enjoying a renovated home is great, but doing so with the peace of mind that everything works as it should is even better.
Before declaring a renovation complete, check what you can see… and also what you can’t see.