In short
- What it is: a free, printable 7-page PDF barndominium build checklist.
- Pages 1-4: checkbox tasks in 7 phases, each with who to ask (builder, lender, county, septic designer and so on).
- Pages 5-7: 40 numbered questions for builders, lenders, insurers, septic/water pros and your county or city.
- Cost: free to download and print, for personal use.
On this page
This free barndominium build checklist turns the whole project into boxes you can tick: from your must-have list and lot checks through financing, permits, site work, the build and the final walk-through. Print it, take it to your first builder meeting, and write the answers down.
Download the checklist (PDF, 7 pages)
What the checklist covers
| Phase (checkboxes) | Examples of what is on it |
|---|---|
| Planning (10) | Must-haves vs nice-to-haves, budget ceiling, living vs shop split, HOA or deed restrictions |
| Land (12) | Road access, septic, water supply, electric distance, flood zone, survey, soil evaluation |
| Financing (9) | Talk to 2-3 lenders, construction-to-permanent loans, draw and inspection process, insurance quotes |
| Permits (9) | Which permits apply, septic and driveway permits, stamped plans, inspection order |
| Site (9) | Site plan, clearing, pad, erosion control, early well or water tap, driveway, septic |
| Build (16) | Contract review, lien waivers, slab, shell, dry-in, rough-ins, insulation, change orders |
| Final (8) | Final inspections, punch list, final lien waivers, warranties, utilities, convert the loan |
Start with the Land section. It asks about septic, water and electric before you close, which is where many East Texas budgets get surprised. Our septic and well guide explains why.
The 40 questions, grouped by who you are asking
| Ask (questions) | Sample question from the PDF |
|---|---|
| Builder (16) | Is the price for living area and shop area shown separately? |
| Lender (10) | How is a shop treated: financed as part of the house or limited by size? |
| Insurance (6) | When does coverage convert from builder's risk to homeowner's? |
| Septic / water (4) | Has a soil evaluation been done, and what system type is likely? |
| County / city (4) | Which inspections are required and in what order? |
How to use it with a builder
- Print it and fill in Planning first
Decide your must-haves, budget ceiling and builder-built vs owner-builder vs kit before you call anyone.
- Bring the builder questions to every meeting
Ask the same questions of each builder and write the answers beside them.
- Compare answers side by side
The scope (shell, dry-in or turnkey), exclusions, allowances and draw schedule are where bids differ.
- Tick off each phase with the named person
Each line says who to ask, such as your lender, the county permit office or a licensed septic designer.
Pair it with our guides: how to choose a barndominium builder, what a barndominium costs in Tyler and Smith County permits.
Planning tool only. It is not financial, legal or construction advice. Confirm permit requirements with your county or city, and get quotes from licensed local providers. We are a referral service, not a builder.
Where this checklist comes from
It is taken from the Barndominium Budget Planner. We're also finishing a Barndominium Budget Planner spreadsheet (cost tracker, loan draw schedule, bid comparison); it isn't on sale yet. The checklist is yours free either way.
Download the free checklist (PDF)
Next step
If you are ready to talk to builders, use the form below and tell us about your project. Independent local builders may reach out with their own quotes.
Frequently asked questions
What is in the barndominium build checklist?
It is a 7-page printable PDF. The first four pages are a checklist in seven phases: Planning, Land, Financing, Permits, Site, Build and Final. The last three pages list 40 questions to ask builders, lenders, insurers, septic and water professionals, and your county or city.
Is the checklist really free?
Yes. You can download the PDF directly from this page. It is for personal use, and it is a planning tool only, not financial, legal or construction advice.
Does the checklist replace my county's permit requirements?
No. It reminds you what to ask, but you need to confirm permits, inspections and fees with your county or city. See our Smith County permits guide for the local starting points.
What is the Barndominium Budget Planner?
It is a spreadsheet we are finishing (cost tracker, loan draw schedule, bid comparison). The checklist comes from it. The planner is not on sale yet.