New Construction Home Inspection
How Many Inspections Do You Need?
It's wise to have two or three inspections performed on the property. Three types are very common and are advised.
The Pre-Drywall Inspection
A pre-drywall or Framing inspection happens after the frame has been built. The roof is on, and the windows are installed, but the sheetrock and walls haven't yet been put up.
The inspector can make sure that the beams, posts, studs, and other structural components are installed right. They can check things like the wiring, plumbing, window flashing, and other issues that will later be hidden behind walls. Your builder can repair them before going further with the project if any problems show up.
The Final Walk-Through Inspection
The final inspection will be performed before closing and is the same as one you would have on any resale property. It ensures the home is safe. It's been finished per local code and building standards.
Anything your inspector finds at this point should also be fixed by your builder before closing.
The 11 Month Warranty Inspection
Most builders offer a one-year warranty on a new home. We’ll come out during the 11th month and perform a full home inspection before the builder’s warranty expires. Our non-invasive inspection is based on observations of the visible and apparent condition of the interior and exterior of the structure, including its major systems and components. Following your inspection, you will receive a comprehensive report, complete with photos, that includes information on any material defects observed on the date of the inspection. Armed with this information, you can take any necessary steps to hold your builder and his subcontractors to their warranties while they’re still in force.
Do I Need a Home Inspection With New Construction?
Just because your home is new, that doesn't mean it's perfect.
You might assume that a home inspection isn’t needed if you had the house built from scratch and to your exact needs. Would it be a waste of your time and money? That depends on how you look at it.
A home inspection can provide key insights into the home's construction, as well as a chance to prevent costly repairs later on. Even new houses have flaws.
What Is a New Construction Home Inspection?
A new construction home inspection is a third-party evaluation of a home’s structure, systems, and other key features. The inspector will evaluate your property and give you a report on their findings. You can then go to the seller (in this case, the builder) to fix any issues before you close on the home.
In a nutshell, inspections can help you ensure that you’re getting a safe and hazard-free property. You won’t have to make tons of repairs before you move in—or worse, right after.
Home inspections are optional, but most homeowners get them, often because their real estate agent urged them to do so.
Common Issues Found in New Homes
It would seem that new homes should be perfect, or close to it, but many say that they often have hidden issues. Some common problems found during new-construction home inspections include structural defects like foundation cracks, faulty grading, and poor framing.
Drainage and grading issues can be problem, because they can cause water damage later on. Windows might leak. There may be HVAC issues, including thermostats that don't work or loose connections.
Electrical problems, such as poorly wired outlets, open grounds, and missing switch plates, aren't unheard of. Nor are plumbing issues, such as reversed hot/cold in faucets, improper piping, leaks, and more.
Inspectors say they've also often found projects that weren't completed. These might include lacking insulation, handrails, or fixtures that are only partly installed, or even missing pieces of hardware.
Contact SMR and we'll build a New Construction Inspection package that fits your needs and budget
