Introduction
Purchasing a property in Nairobi’s upmarket neighbourhoods is a significant investment — one that calls for careful oversight right up to the final step. Before signing off on your property purchase, there lies a crucial moment designed to protect your interests: the final home walk-through.
This final review is not just a formality; it’s your last opportunity to verify that the home is in the exact condition agreed upon. Whether you’re buying in Kileleshwa, Kilimani, Riverside, Loresho, Runda, or Parklands, a thorough walk-through ensures transparency, protects your investment, and preserves peace of mind.
From confirming repairs to testing essential systems, every minute spent during this process can prevent costly inconveniences once you move in. Below is an expanded and comprehensive checklist of the ten most important things to inspect during your final walk-through.
1. Verify All Repairs Were Completed
Any repairs the seller agreed to handle should be cross-checked during this final review. If you had a home inspection done earlier, compare its findings with the current condition of the home.
Confirm major repairs like:
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Plumbing leaks
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Electrical faults
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Roof patchwork
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Window replacements
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Broken fixtures
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Wall or ceiling cracks
Whenever possible, request supporting documents such as contractor receipts, warranties, brand-new product packaging, or before/after photos. This provides assurance that the repairs were professionally handled and not rushed.
2. Check All Appliances and Fixtures
This is one of the most commonly overlooked steps during a final home walk-through, especially when buyers assume everything worked as advertised. Do not skip hands-on testing.
Physically turn on or test:
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Ovens, microwaves & stovetops
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Refrigerators & freezers
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Washing machines & dryers
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AC units or fans
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Water heaters
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Garbage disposal units (if available)
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Range hoods
Check all plumbing fixtures too:
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Shower heads
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Bidets
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Bathroom sinks
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Kitchen taps
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Toilet flush handles
Not only does this confirm functionality, but it also uncovers issues that may develop when the home has been vacant.
3. Test All Doors and Windows
Doors and windows significantly affect security, ventilation, and the overall comfort of your home.
Ensure that:
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All windows open and close smoothly
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Door locks function securely
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Sliding doors glide without sticking
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Window panes are crack-free
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Curtain rods and blinds are intact
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Hinges do not squeak or sag
In Nairobi’s upmarket neighbourhoods, security features such as steel doors, reinforced panels, and smart lock systems are common — all of which should be checked for full functionality.
4. Inspect Water Pressure and Plumbing
Water pressure issues are extremely common in multi-unit buildings and older homes in Nairobi. Testing plumbing during the walk-through helps you avoid inconveniences after moving in.
Check for:
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Strong, consistent water pressure
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Proper drainage
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Hot water functionality
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Leaks under sinks
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Toilet tank refilling speed
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Foul odours indicating pipe problems
Turn on multiple water sources at once to simulate daily use — this exposes hidden pressure issues.
5. Examine Walls, Floors, and Ceilings
A clean, damage-free interior is essential in upmarket home purchases. During this step, look for both new and previously missed issues.
Be attentive to signs such as:
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Fresh cracks on walls or ceilings
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Water stains indicating leakage
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Peeling paint
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Missing or chipped tiles
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Sagging ceilings
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Warped wood flooring
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Uneven floor surfaces
Some defects arise after moving furniture or during the seller’s move-out process. Identifying them early helps ensure repairs are addressed before closing.
6. Test All Lights, Switches, and Electrical Outlets
Electrical issues can be costly and inconvenient, especially when moving into a new home. A complete electrical check ensures safety and functionality.
Test:
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Every light switch
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Overhead lighting
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Outdoor lighting
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USB charging ports (if built-in)
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All sockets using a charger
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Circuit breaker stability
Check for flickering lights, buzzing sounds, warm outlets, or unusual smells — these are signs of deeper electrical issues.
7. Confirm All Items Included in the Sale Are Present
Your offer letter or sale agreement typically lists items included in the transaction. These often cover built-in features or agreed-upon appliances.
Verify the presence of:
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Wardrobes and shelving
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Custom kitchen cabinetry
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Curtain rods and blinds
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Light fixtures
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Mounted TVs
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Smart home devices
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Water pumps and storage tanks
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Outdoor fixtures (e.g., garden lights, swings, or water features)
If anything is missing, unclear, or swapped out for cheaper alternatives, raise it immediately.
8. Check for New Damage or Wear
If the seller moved out recently, new damage may have occurred during relocation. Heavy furniture, movers, or last-minute repairs can leave marks or create new issues.
Look for:
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Scratches on floors
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Holes in walls
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Broken tiles
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Dented doors
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Damaged countertops
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Broken handles or latches
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Carpet stains
Photograph anything suspicious for reference and documentation.
9. Inspect the Exterior Areas
Exterior spaces influence curb appeal, functionality, and safety. In upmarket Nairobi properties, these outdoor components are especially important.
Inspect:
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Balconies for structural stability
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Railings for safety
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Drainage systems
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Garden condition
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Exterior lighting
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Walkways and pavements
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Gate automation systems
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Parking and driveway access
Any cracks, rust, loose screws, or overgrown landscaping should be noted.
10. Ensure the Home Is Clean and Move-In Ready
According to GoodHousekeeping, a proper handover requires a clean home. While deep cleaning is not legally required in all cases, seller etiquette and upmarket standards demand a move-in-ready property.
Confirm that:
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All rooms have been swept and mopped
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Cabinets and drawers are cleaned out
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Bathrooms are sanitized
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Kitchen counters are wiped
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Balconies and outdoor areas are tidy
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No rubbish is left behind
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No personal items remain
A clean home provides a fresh, welcoming start and helps identify any leftover issues.
Final Thoughts
A final home walk-through is an essential safeguard in Nairobi’s upscale real estate market. It ensures your investment meets the promised standards, supports a smooth closing, and reduces post-move surprises. By dedicating time to this process — and using this comprehensive checklist — you protect yourself from unexpected hassles and enter your new home confident and prepared.
Call to Action
Buying a high-value property in Nairobi’s upmarket should feel exciting, not stressful. If you want expert support during your final home walk-through — from repair verification to full move-in readiness checks — our team is here to help.
Contact us today at Realty Boris and enjoy a seamless, worry-free closing experience.
