Updated December 2025

The High-Performance Rough-In Audit: Pre-Drywall Quality Protocol

Envelope & Air Barrier Verification

Critical seal inspection before insulation hides gaps forever

  • Verify liquid flash application on all exterior sheathing seams (no tape peeling)
  • Inspect wall-to-foundation connection for continuous sealant bead
  • Check all penetration points (pipes, wires) for fluid-applied air seal
  • Validate roof-to-wall interface sealing integrity
  • Confirm cantilevered floor joists are blocked and air-sealed
  • Inspect rim joist areas for spray foam or gasket completeness
Pro Tip: Request a 'pen test'—if you can slide a pen into a sheathing gap, water and air will follow. Seal it now.

HVAC Distribution Quality

Ensuring breathable, efficient air delivery without losses

  • Confirm all ductwork joints are mastic-sealed (duct tape is prohibited)
  • Verify ducts run strictly in conditioned spaces (or deep buried per code)
  • Check flex duct runs for sagging, kinks, or compression (>4ft requires rigid)
  • Inspect return air pathways—ensure adequate transfer grilles above doors
  • Validate construction filters are installed if systems are running
  • Confirm temporary boot covers are keeping debris out of supply lines
Pro Tip: The 'Boot Test': Remove one floor register cover. If you see sawdust or drywall chunks, the system needs an immediate professional clean-out before closing up.

Advanced Plumbing Rough-In

Water logic, recirculation, and leak defense readiness

  • Verify dedicated hot water recirculation loop installation (prevent dead legs)
  • Check nail plates on studs wherever pipes pass through (<1.5 inch depth)
  • Confirm toilet carrier installation heights align with finished floor levels
  • Inspect P-trap alignments for sink cabinets (avoid drawer conflict)
  • Validate main water shut-off accessibility location
  • Check shower valve depth setting relative to specific tile thickness choice
Pro Tip: Take a photo of every open wall cavity containing plumbing. This 'X-Ray' map is priceless when you need to hang a towel bar or shelf later.

Electrical & Low Voltage Map

Future-proofing power, data, and sensor placement

  • Verify neutral wires included in every switch box (required for smart switches)
  • Confirm CAT6A or fiber drops to TV locations and office hubs
  • Check placement of floor outlets (floating sofa locations)
  • Validate under-cabinet lighting driver locations (remote vs. local)
  • Inspect speaker rough-in rings for symmetry and alignment
  • Verify deep back-boxes used for dimmers and smart devices
Pro Tip: Ask for 'Conduit runs' from the basement utility room to the attic. This cheap PVC pipe makes adding future solar or satellite tech nearly free.

Precision Framing & Blocking

Structural geometry and solid backing for heavy fixtures

  • Verify 2x6 or plywood backing installed for heavy cabinetry and range hoods
  • Check grab bar blocking in all shower and tub wet zones
  • Confirm drapery blocking (full header width) above all windows
  • Inspect stair tread risers for consistent height (avoiding trip hazards)
  • Validate towel warmer hardwire location and blocking
  • Check for 'dead corners' where insulation cannot reach
Pro Tip: Blocking is the most skipped step. If you want to mount a 75-inch TV or heavy mirror later without drywall anchors, ensure plywood backing is screwed in now.

Window & Door Water Management

The number one failure point for leaks and rot

  • Verify sill pan flashing has back-dams and end-dams turned up
  • Check that window flanges are shingle-lapped (top flap OVER side flap)
  • Inspect head flashing (drip cap) installation above all exterior trim
  • Confirm rough opening gap is foamed with low-expansion foam (not stuffed)
  • Validate sliding door pans are fully supported (no hollow flexing)
  • Check clearances for finished floor thickness at exterior door thresholds
Pro Tip: Never rely on the window's nailing fin alone. The head flashing metal drip cap is your primary defense against driving rain.

Wet Area Waterproofing

Pre-tile assurance for showers and laundry rooms

  • Verify shower slope (1/4 inch per foot) pre-check before liner install
  • Inspect niche framing for slope (water must shed into shower, not sit)
  • Check laundry room floor drain presence and slope
  • Confirm curb waterproofing connects continuously to pan liner
  • Validate height of waterproofing behind splash zones (min 6 inches)
  • Inspect bench seats for proper slope and waterproofing integration
Pro Tip: Flood test the shower pan for 24 hours. Fill it with water, mark the line, and wait. If the level drops, finding the leak now costs $50; later it costs $5,000.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the right time to conduct this audit?

This audit must happen after all mechanicals (MEP) are 'roughed in' and passed municipal inspection, but strictly BEFORE insulation or drywall is installed. The wall cavities must be completely open and visible.

Can I do this inspection myself?

You can perform a visual spot check using this checklist, but for blower door testing and duct leakage verification, hiring a HERS rater or 3rd party energy consultant provides actionable data and leverage.

What is the 'Perfect Wall' concept?

The 'Perfect Wall' controls four layers: rain, air, vapor, and thermal. This audit prioritizes the air and water control layers on the exterior sheathing, which are impossible to fix once cladding and drywall are installed.