What to Expect During a New Construction Inspection
When buying a newly constructed home, many people assume everything is in perfect condition and that a home inspection is unnecessary. However, even new homes can have hidden issues or construction oversights. A new construction inspection ensures that your brand-new home meets the required building standards and is free from defects before you move in. Here’s what to expect during the process.
1. Scheduling the Inspection
A new construction inspection typically takes place before the final walkthrough with the builder. It’s important to schedule the inspection at the right stage—usually when construction is complete, but before you close on the home. This allows time for any issues found to be addressed by the builder.
2. A Thorough Examination of All Systems and Components
Despite being newly built, homes can still have issues ranging from minor cosmetic flaws to significant structural problems. During the inspection, our certified inspectors will check all major systems and components of the house, including:
- Foundation and Structure: We’ll ensure the foundation is solid and there are no cracks or signs of settling. The framing and structure will also be evaluated for proper installation.
- Roof and Exterior: The roof, gutters, windows, and exterior walls will be inspected for proper installation and any potential vulnerabilities.
- Plumbing Systems: We’ll verify that all plumbing fixtures, pipes, and drains are correctly installed and free of leaks.
- Electrical Systems: All outlets, switches, and electrical panels will be tested to ensure they meet safety standards and function as intended.
- HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning): We’ll assess the heating and cooling systems to confirm they are working efficiently and providing proper airflow throughout the home.
- Interior Finishes: We’ll inspect doors, walls, floors, and ceilings for any cosmetic defects, misalignments, or unfinished areas.
3. Identifying Potential Code Violations
While builders are required to follow local building codes, mistakes can happen. Our inspectors are trained to spot any potential code violations that could affect the safety or performance of your home. This includes checking fire safety systems, staircases, and ventilation to ensure they comply with regulations.
4. Checking for Incomplete or Poor Workmanship
Sometimes, in the rush to complete a project on time, corners can be cut. We’ll look for any signs of poor workmanship, such as misaligned tiles, improper drywall installation, or unfinished cabinetry. Even small cosmetic issues can be addressed if caught early.
5. A Detailed Inspection Report
Once the inspection is complete, you’ll receive a detailed report highlighting any defects, safety concerns, or areas that need improvement. Our reports include photos and descriptions of the issues, making it easy to discuss repairs or corrections with your builder. You’ll also receive recommendations on how to address any concerns.
6. Time for Corrections
One of the main benefits of a new construction inspection is that it gives you the opportunity to have any issues corrected before you move in. After reviewing the inspection report, you can present the findings to your builder and request that the necessary repairs or improvements be made.
7. Peace of Mind
A new construction inspection offers peace of mind by ensuring that your investment is sound and your new home is move-in ready. The process gives you a better understanding of your home’s condition and allows you to address any problems with the builder before they become costly or inconvenient.
8. Final Walkthrough
After the builder addresses any issues identified in the inspection, a final walkthrough is conducted. This is your chance to confirm that all repairs have been made and that everything in your new home is in working order.
Conclusion
A new construction inspection is a valuable step in protecting your investment. Even though your home is brand-new, it’s always best to have a professional inspect it for any hidden issues or code violations. This way, you can confidently move into your new home knowing that it’s in top condition.
If you’re in the process of buying a newly constructed home, contact us today to schedule your new construction inspection. We’ll provide the thorough inspection and detailed report you need to ensure everything is in order before you move in.