The brand-new home you’ve been waiting for is ready! Before you move in, you’ll have an opportunity to do a walk-through of your home with your builder. This is called a pre-delivery inspection.
Your builder will schedule your pre-delivery inspection (also known as a PDI) on or before your closing date (or occupancy date if you’ve bought a condominium unit).
Since the PDI is an important step in your new home buying journey, it’s a good idea to go into it with as much knowledge as possible. Here are five quick facts to get you started:
1. The purpose is to note things that may require further attention.
The main purpose of the PDI is to document items in your new home that are missing, damaged, or not working properly. Your builder will note items that may require further attention on a PDI form and give you a copy. If you’re not able to inspect a part of your home – due to weather or for any other reason – you should make sure this is also noted on the PDI form.
2. It’s also an orientation.
The PDI is also your chance to learn how to maintain and take care of your home. For example, your builder’s representative will explain how to operate and maintain systems, such as the furnace, or properly care for finishings like hardwood floors. Take full advantage of this opportunity by asking any questions you might have.
3. PDIs for condos stick to unit boundaries.
If your new home is a condominium, your PDI will focus only on the items that are within the boundaries of your unit. However, if you notice an issue with an item that is connected to your unit but considered a common element – such as balconies, windows, or front entrance doors – you can make a note of them separately and forward them to your condominium board afterwards (e.g., by email).
4. The PDI form is different from a warranty form.
The completed PDI form becomes the official record of your home’s condition at the time of closing or occupancy. However, the PDI form is not a warranty claim form, so you will need to report items separately through MyHome if items noted on the PDI are not addressed after you move in and you need warranty assistance. Click here to learn more about warranty claim forms.
5. You’ll receive a Warranty Certificate.
At the end of the PDI, your builder will provide you with a Certificate of Completion and Possession (CCP). This document confirms that your home comes with a builder’s warranty that is backed by Tarion. The CCP contains key information such as your home’s enrolment number with Tarion, the warranty start date, and your builder’s after sales service contact details. You can learn more about why the CCP is important by reading our blog.
Getting ready for your PDI
In the time leading up to your PDI, we encourage you to take a moment to explore some of the resources Tarion provides to help you prepare, such as our learning module and podcast. Also, consider bringing a copy of our PDI Checklist along with you to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
We hope your PDI is a positive experience. If you have any further questions, contact us.