Quick answer: The pre-delivery inspection (PDI) is your walk-through of a new home with the builder before you take possession. Use it to record anything damaged, missing, incomplete or not working on the builder's PDI form.
Bring a checklist, a phone for photos, painter's tape, a phone charger to test outlets, and someone to help. Test every tap, switch, door, window and appliance. Don't sign the form until every issue is written down. Leave with:
- The completed PDI form
- Your Tarion Certificate of Completion and Possession
- Appliance manuals
- The builder's contact for warranty service
The PDI is the single most important hour of your pre-construction purchase after signing. What you note on the PDI form is your proof that a problem existed before you moved in. That makes warranty claims much easier. Here's how to prepare and the full room-by-room checklist.
What is a PDI?
A pre-delivery inspection is a builder-led walk-through of your new home when it's ready for occupancy. It's required for every new home enrolled with Tarion in Ontario. The builder's representative walks you through the home, shows you how its systems work, and records any items that need attention on the PDI form.
Under the Tarion warranty, the PDI form documents the condition of the home at possession. Damage you don't record, like a chipped counter or a scratched floor, can be hard to prove later.
Before your PDI
- ☐ Confirm the date and time in writing. PDIs are usually scheduled a few weeks before possession.
- ☐ Ask how long it will take. Plan for at least 1–2 hours.
- ☐ Review your agreement's schedule of finishes and upgrades so you know exactly what you paid for.
- ☐ Ask whether you can bring a home inspector or your agent. You can bring someone to help.
- ☐ Go in daylight so you can see scratches and paint flaws.
What to bring
- Phone (for photos and video) and a charger to test outlets
- Painter's tape to mark flaws
- A printed checklist and pen
- A copy of your finishes and upgrades selections
- A small level and a flashlight
- A second person to take notes
Room-by-room PDI checklist
Everywhere
- ☐ Walls and ceilings: cracks, nail pops, paint drips, missed spots
- ☐ Floors: scratches, chips, gaps, squeaks, lifting tiles, uneven transitions
- ☐ Doors: open and close smoothly, latch properly, no damage
- ☐ Windows: open, close and lock, screens present, no cracked glass or broken seals
- ☐ Outlets and switches: each one works, cover plates installed
- ☐ Light fixtures installed and working
- ☐ Baseboards and trim: fitted, caulked, painted
- ☐ Heating and cooling: thermostat works, vents deliver air
Kitchen
- ☐ Counters: chips, cracks, seams, correct material and colour
- ☐ Cabinets: doors aligned, drawers slide, no scratches, hardware installed
- ☐ Sink and faucet: hot and cold water, no leaks underneath, drains properly
- ☐ Appliances: delivered, correct models, undamaged, power on
- ☐ Range hood vents and light work
Bathrooms
- ☐ Toilets flush and refill, no rocking or leaks
- ☐ Shower and tub: hot water, drain, caulking, no chips in tub or tile
- ☐ Exhaust fan works
- ☐ Vanity, mirror and accessories installed and undamaged
Exterior and mechanical (freehold homes)
- ☐ Siding, brick, eavestroughs and downspouts complete
- ☐ Driveway, walkways and grading slope away from the house
- ☐ Garage door opens, closes and reverses safely
- ☐ Furnace, water heater, air conditioner and electrical panel: ask how each works
- ☐ Exterior taps and outlets work
Condo extras
- ☐ Balcony door, railing, floor and drain
- ☐ In-suite laundry: washer and dryer run, dryer vent connected
- ☐ Parking spot and locker numbers match your agreement
- ☐ Fobs, keys and mailbox key received
Five things to leave your PDI with
- A complete PDI form listing every item that needs attention. Don't sign until it's complete, and get a copy.
- Your Certificate of Completion and Possession (warranty certificate), which shows your Tarion enrolment number and warranty start date.
- Appliance manuals and manufacturer warranties. Appliances are generally covered by the manufacturer, not Tarion.
- An orientation on your home's systems: heating, cooling, water shut-off and electrical panel.
- Builder contacts and next steps for fixing the items on your list.
After your PDI: warranty deadlines
| Form | When to submit |
|---|---|
| 30-Day Form | Within the first 30 days after possession |
| Year-End Form | In the last 30 days of the first year |
| Second-Year Form | Before the end of the second year |
Submit through Tarion's online portal. Missing a window can limit your coverage. See our occupancy and closing FAQ for more.
Related reading: How to Buy Pre-Construction in Ontario · Buying Process FAQ · Ultimate Guide to Investing in Pre-Construction
Frequently asked questions
What does PDI stand for in real estate?
Pre-delivery inspection. It's the walk-through of a new home with the builder before you take possession, required for new homes enrolled with Tarion in Ontario.
Can I bring a home inspector to my PDI?
You can bring someone with you, such as a family member, your agent or a home inspector. Confirm with the builder in advance.
How long does a PDI take?
Usually one to two hours, depending on the size of the home. Don't rush. Take the time to test everything.
What if I find a problem after the PDI?
Report it on Tarion's 30-Day Form or Year-End Form within the deadlines. Items listed on the PDI form are easier to get fixed because they show the problem existed at possession.
Should I sign the PDI form if items are missing?
Yes, once every issue is written on it. Signing confirms the list. It doesn't mean you accept the problems.
About the author: Ola Otubu is a REALTOR® with Realty ONE Group Reveal, Real Estate Brokerage, and the founder of Buyprecon.ca. He represents buyers of new construction homes and condos across Ontario, from the first deposit through PDI, closing and warranty claims.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Warranty rules and deadlines are set by Tarion and can change. Sources: Tarion.
Want someone in your corner at your PDI?
I attend PDIs with my buyers, help document every issue and follow up with the builder on warranty items. There's no cost to you as a buyer.