The last weeks of a cottage project bring a mix of excitement and detail. Paint is drying, fixtures are in and the space looks ready. A DADU final walkthrough is the meeting where the owner and builder review the finished work together and agree on what remains. It is also when you learn how the home’s systems work.

This guide covers punch lists, system demos, documents, warranties and the official approvals that come at the end. It also explains why accepting the work from your builder is not the same as the city’s approval to occupy.

Walkthrough Acceptance Versus City Approval

Two separate approvals close out a project. The first comes from the city, and it rests on inspections. The Seattle Residential Code says you cannot occupy a new building until the building official approves it after final inspection.

SDCI describes the same step on its construction inspections page. The final inspection comes after all construction is complete and all related permits have received their own final inspections. After that, SDCI grants approval to occupy. Your walkthrough with the builder, by contrast, is a private review under your contract.

Because of this, signing off on the punch list does not mean the home is legal to live in. Likewise, a city approval does not mean every finish meets your expectations. Keep both steps in view, and confirm that the city’s final approval is in place before anyone moves in.

Preparing for the DADU Final Walkthrough

Ideally, set the walkthrough for when the work is close to done, but before you make the final payment. Ask the builder to clean the site and remove tools so you can see every surface. Then bring the plans, your selection list and any signed change orders. These papers let you compare what you agreed to with what you see.

Think about who should attend, too. The builder or project lead should walk with you, since they can answer questions on the spot. If a partner or co-owner shares the decision, invite them as well, so everyone hears the same answers.

Plan enough time to go room by room. Good light helps, so a daytime visit often works best. Also, bring painter’s tape to mark small items.

The DADU Final Walkthrough Punch List

A punch list records small items that still need attention. Common entries include paint touch ups, loose hardware, gaps in caulk, scratched surfaces and doors that stick. Each entry should name the room, the item and the fix. Photos of each item make the list even clearer.

Next, test as you go. Open every door, window and cabinet. Run each faucet and shower, flush each toilet and try every switch and outlet. Then share the written list with the builder and agree on a completion date for each item.

System Demonstrations

A cottage has several systems that need clear instructions. Ask the builder or installers to show you how each one works:

• Heating and cooling including thermostats and filter access
• Ventilation including fan controls and timers
• Water heater including settings and shutoff valves
• Electrical panel including the circuit directory and main disconnect
• Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms including testing and battery backup

Our post on DADU ventilation systems explains the ventilation controls in more detail.

Certificates and Test Reports

At handover, several documents should be in place. The energy code requires a permanent certificate posted inside the building, often near the furnace or in a utility room. It lists insulation values, window ratings and other energy features.

Likewise, the residential code calls for a posted certificate for the ventilation system. In addition, the energy code requires the testing agency to give the owner a signed report from the air leakage test. Ask where each document is, and keep copies with your records.

Maintenance Information for the DADU Final Walkthrough

Ask for manuals, warranty cards and model numbers for all equipment and appliances. A simple binder or digital folder keeps them in one place, which helps when a future repair or warranty claim comes up. Also note filter sizes and service intervals the manufacturers list.

Of course, site systems need care too. The Stormwater Code says owners must keep on-site stormwater tools working in line with the Director’s rules. So ask what upkeep any rain garden, drywell or dispersion system needs. Our guide to DADU stormwater management explains those tools.

Warranties, Liens and Final Payment

Washington’s Department of Labor and Industries advises that contracts include warranties and change order processes. So review what your contract says about warranty length, coverage and how to report problems. Keep that section with your manuals, along with contact details for the builder and key installers.

L&I also advises owners to get signed lien releases before they make the final payment. That step helps protect the property from claims by unpaid parties. If you have questions about your rights, consider legal advice.

Outstanding Commitments and Closeout

Even so, some items may remain after the walkthrough. For example, a backordered part, landscape restoration or a final utility step may still be pending. List each one in writing with an owner and a target date. Then check the list together again once each item is done, so nothing slips.

Our guide to DADU construction stages shows how final inspections fit the sequence. Overall, a DADU final walkthrough works best when it documents every open item, explains every system and stays separate from the city’s own approval to occupy.