Pre-Close Inspection Checklist: What to Document Before Drywall

A pre-close inspection — the walkthrough before drywall goes up — is the last chance to document everything that will be hidden inside the walls. This is also the inspection most commonly skipped or done informally, creating the most common source of post-construction disputes.

Here's what to document before drywall, and how to do it in a way that protects everyone.

Why pre-drywall documentation matters

Once drywall is hung, the following information is gone from direct observation:

• Pipe routing and locations
• Wire runs and junction box positions
• Structural blocking and backing
• Insulation installation
• Fire blocking locations
• Any field modifications from original plans

If a leak, electrical fault, or code question comes up years later, the only way to know what's inside the wall without opening it is the documentation from before it was closed.

Pre-drywall inspection checklist

Framing

• All structural members in place per plan
• Headers sized correctly for openings
• Blocking for fixtures, grab bars, cabinets
• Fire blocking at required intervals

Rough electrical

• All boxes located and secured
• Wire routing documented with photos of each run
• Panel rough-in complete
• Junction boxes accessible or documented

Rough plumbing

• Supply line routing photographed before closing
• Drain slope confirmed and photographed
• Vent connections visible and documented
• Pressure test complete if required

HVAC rough-in

• Duct routing photographed before closing
• Equipment locations documented
• Thermostat wiring locations noted

Insulation

• All cavities insulated as specified
• Vapour barrier installed where required
• Any gaps or issues noted and addressed

How to capture this documentation efficiently

The goal is a complete, organised record that you can access years later if needed. The practical approach:

1. Create a project in Manifold for the address and stage ("[Address] — Pre-Drywall")
2. Walk each room systematically — photograph from wall to wall, floor to ceiling
3. Close-up every rough-in element: each box, each pipe entry and exit, each wire run
4. Use Manifold's checklist to make sure you haven't missed any required items
5. Generate a PDF report as the official pre-drywall inspection record

The entire process for a typical room takes 5–10 minutes. The PDF becomes a permanent record that's searchable, shareable, and legally defensible.

Orbit Measure for pre-drywall 3D documentation

Manifold's Orbit Measure feature lets you walk a framed space for 60 seconds and get a measurable 3D model showing the spatial layout of the framing, mechanical rough-ins, and wall cavities. For complex spaces or projects where the spatial relationship between systems matters, this 3D record complements the flat photos.

Pricing

Manifold's Photo plan starts at $16/user/month. Photo+Scan with Orbit Measure: $24/user/month. No seat minimums. Free trial, no credit card.

Start your free trial or book a demo.