The Pre-Occupancy Inspection (POI)

When your unit is completed and prior to your moving in, you will given a Pre-Occupancy Inspection of your unit. You inspect your unit, note any deficiencies and sign an agreement that all seems to be in order.

I suggest you be accompanied by a relative or friend who is in the construction industry to assist you with this inspection. If you don't have such a resource, then hire a home inspector to accompany you.

You want to check that:

•	The contractors installed all the upgrades that you ordered and that your unit is painted the colours you specified and you got the tile and floor colours you wanted.
•	Tap all the floor tiles with your knuckles. If any tiles sound hollow, then there is no adhesive under those tiles. They will crack if anything falls on them. Have those tiles replaced.
•	Check all the burners on the stove and turn the oven and the range hood on. Run the dishwasher through a complete cycle.
•	Test all the electrical receptacles, both plugs to insure they all work.
•	Run the hot and cold water through all taps. Make sure that the sinks drain properly. If you are suppose to have a constant temperature shower head, make sure that is what you got. Put the water on warm and then flush the toilet and then check to see if the shower temperature changes.
•	Flush the toilets.
•	Check to see that the washing machine and dryer work. Run them through a full cycle.
•	Check the the wood floor planks to insure the cracks between the planks are tight. I have seen some where you could place quarters in the cracks.
•	Check your fan coil to make sure it works properly.
•	Check that the doors (cupboards too) and your windows open and close properly. Same with your balcony door.
	Check the seals around your windows.
•	Check for the fit and finish of the walls, tiles and trim.

If you see defects, I'd have them repaired before you sign the POI. Once you sign that agreement, the developer will have far less incentive to make those repairs.

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