Class 1 of 7 — Equipment Selection & Planning Review

Purpose:
Ensure correct system type, zoning, and layout are aligned with living comfort and building performance goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Confirm:

  • System type: Heat Pump / Gas / Mini-Split / ERV / HRV

  • Number of zones + thermostat locations

  • Code-required ventilation and CFM sizing

• Review energy performance: SEER, HSPF, COP ratings

• Standardize manufacturer + warranty expectations

Action Items

• ✅ Confirm load calculations (Manual J / S / D), documented in plan folder

• ✅ Walk the home to confirm register locations and airflow patterns

• ✅ Align design with indoor air quality strategy (filters, fresh air intake)

• ✅ Provide homeowners summary for approval

Class 2 of 7 — Material Take-Off & Budget Alignment

Purpose:
Build a proper cost structure and eliminate ordering mistakes.

Key Responsibilities

• Create a detailed list of:

  • Ducting lengths + diameters

  • Registers + grilles

  • Dampers + controls

  • Refrigerant line sets + drain routing

• Confirm 5% contingency

Action Items

• ✅ Installer verifies full take-off before ordering

• ✅ Track all subs + vendors in Sub Bid Sheet

• ✅ Document elevation-specific material requirements

• ✅ Upload budget w/ any pricing deltas approved by owner

Class 3 of 7 — Pre-Delivery Coordination & Access Planning

Purpose:
Ensure materials, staging zones, and future servicing access are prepared before rough-in is allowed.

Key Responsibilities

• Confirm attic / crawl / mech room access meets code

• Ensure no conflicts with plumbing or electrical runs

• Confirm refrigerant line routing avoids hot walls

Action Items

• ✅ Double check fresh air intake locations

• ✅ Confirm future filter replacement access

• ✅ Verify all mechanical penetrations planned + labeled

• ✅ Predict weather conditions → protect equipment from moisture

Class 4 of 7 — One-Week-Out Jobsite Verification

Purpose:
Lock in subcontractor mobilization and ensure rough-in environment is ready.

Key Responsibilities

• Confirm team availability

• Confirm hardware + equipment arrival

• Verify inspection scheduling:

  • Rough mechanical

  • Condensate routing

  • Duct testing (if required)

Action Items

• ✅ Perform conflict check with electrician + plumber: no clashes

• ✅ Mark mechanical chase areas clearly

• ✅ Ensure framing corrections complete before HVAC starts

• ✅ Confirm homeowner understands visible vent locations

PM Reminder:

Ducting is permanent once buried in walls/ceilings — clarity matters now.

Class 5 of 7 — Rough-In Execution & Field Quality Control

Purpose:
Ensure airflow performance meets design and prevent costly rework.

Field Responsibilities

• ✅ Duct sealing + fastening → code compliant

• ✅ Verify airflow path: supply @ windows, returns centrally located

• ✅ Check pitch on condensate lines → drain away from equipment

• ✅ Confirm noise avoidance at bedrooms & offices

• ✅ Weekly punch list based on airflow + routing

Documentation

• ✅ Photo every duct connection before drywall

• ✅ Capture refrigerant line insulation continuity

Class 6 of 7 — System Start-Up & Interior Comfort Testing

Purpose:
Verify system performance before close-out and turnover.

Start-Up Action Items

• ✅ Static pressure testing + duct leakage testing (if required)

• ✅ Confirm temperature differential across coils

• ✅ Program thermostats + zoning controls

• ✅ Verify condensate pumps + drain pans working

• ✅ Adjust registers for balanced comfort

PM Tip:

If it doesn’t feel good inside the home on day one — you own it forever.

Class 7 of 7 — Close-Out, Docs, & Payment Approval

Purpose:
Ensure system is complete, future service is supported, and warranties are locked.

Final Close-Out Responsibilities

• ✅ Blue tape walk with installer

• ✅ Inspect:

  • Scratches / damage to finishes

  • Proper labeling on supply & return

  • No ducts crushed — attic walk required

• ✅ Confirm:

  • ✔ Mechanical inspection passed

  • ✔ Warranty registered

  • ✔ Homeowner demo scheduled

• ✅ Upload manufacturer manuals + service contacts

• ✅ Final budget update + office approval to pay

Thank you for completing this Session!

Home Building Master Class | The Contractor Checklist

Video Explanation

www.thecontractorchecklist.com