Your Practical Completion Inspection (PCI) is one of the final and most exciting milestones in the Carlisle build journey. It’s the moment you can walk through your almost-finished home with your Construction Supervisor, reviewing the craftsmanship, checking selections and ensuring everything aligns with the plans and vision created at the start of the build.

The PCI is designed to be informative, collaborative and reassuring but there’s a few things you should know, and prepare for ahead of time – here’s exactly what to expect.

Preparing for Your PCI

Before you arrive on site, Carlisle has already completed two major quality checks behind the scenes:

• A full internal walk-through by your Construction Supervisor
• A thorough Quality Assurance inspection by Carlisle’s dedicated QA team

This means many adjustments or touch-ups have already been identified and scheduled before the PCI even begins.

Here’s how you can prepare for the inspection:

Review your documentation

Revisit your:

• Final Building Contract
• Construction Plans
• Electrical layouts
• Colour selections
• Any Building Variations

This acts as a helpful refresher on what was chosen.

Take a quick look at your home beforehand

If you’ve been visiting the site or assessing progress through Carlisle Connect, you’ll likely be familiar with most details. A quick mental check of anything you’d like to revisit on the day is useful.

Save furniture measurements for later

It’s tempting to start planning lounge configurations on the spot, but PCI day is all about the build itself. Leave the tape measure in the drawer for now – the styling decisions can start once everything is officially signed off.

No tools required

There’s no need to bring torches, levels or tape measures – your Supervisor will handle everything needed to review the home thoroughly.

Bring questions instead

If something doesn’t look quite as expected – from a finish to a fitting – simply mention it during the walkthrough. Your Supervisor will record it on the PCI form and ensure it’s reviewed before handover.

What Happens During the PCI

PCI appointments are designed to walk you through the home step by step, allowing you to see, test and understand every part of the build.

Who will be there

Your Construction Supervisor leads the PCI. In some cases, additional Carlisle team members may also join, but the Supervisor is your main point of support and documentation.

Step-by-step overview

1. Exterior check
   The appointment typically begins outside, reviewing:

• Brickwork or render
• Paint finishes
• Windows and doors
• Downpipes and gutters
• External fittings

Any concerns raised throughout construction have often already been addressed, so this stage is usually quick.

2. Interior review
   Inside, you and your Supervisor will check:

• Cabinetry alignment and operation
• Drawer and door hardware
• Windows and locks
• Hinges, handles and fixtures
• Showerheads, taps, toilets and plumbing
• Electrical points, light switches and key services
• Heating and cooling system locations

You will be shown where everything is – though full demonstrations of systems (security, HVAC, appliances) are typically explored after handover.

3. Paintwork and finish review
   Minor cosmetic marks can appear as final trades move through the home. Any imperfections noted will be logged for rectification.

How items are recorded

Your Supervisor completes a formal PCI checklist during the walkthrough. Any items needing touch-ups or review are added to this document, which forms the official record for finalisation before handover.

After the PCI

Once the appointment is complete, your Supervisor coordinates all agreed rectifications and organises any required follow-up.

What happens next

• Agreed touch-ups are scheduled and completed
• Your final payment and bank valuation are arranged
• Certificate of Occupancy (CofO) is finalised (often already issued by this stage)

Carlisle will keep you informed every step of the way. If you’re renting, the team recommends waiting for confirmation before giving notice to your landlord, as valuations or CofO timing may occasionally affect the timeline to settlement.

Settlement day

Once all PCI items are resolved and payment is confirmed, your handover date is booked.

On settlement day, your Construction Supervisor meets you on site to:

• Present your keys
• Provide relevant documentation and warranties
• Answer any final questions about materials, appliances or home care

And that’s it, your new Carlisle home will officially be yours.

Need help before your PCI?