Even brand new homes need inspections.
Homeowners often link problems down the road to faulty construction from the start. In fact, it’s not uncommon for a new home to have 10-30 issues during the final inspection walk-through.
It doesn’t mean the builder is dishonest; it is simply best to have a second set of eyes, to ensure everything is done to your standards so that you can settle into your new home with sound peace of mind.
Three reasons you should have a private inspection on new construction (in addition to the city inspector!):
- City inspectors are only responsible for enforcing local building code with minimum safety standards. They do not inspect for the quality of construction or adherence to materials manufacturers’ installation instructions. They do not look for cosmetic flaws, including leaky faucets or scratched tiles.
- City inspectors are highly overworked AND underpaid. A city inspector may be asked to look at upwards of 20 homes at day. At that volume, they make careless mistakes and overlook simple repairs. Elite Inspection Group never schedules more than two inspections per day, per inspector. We value quality over quantity, any day of the week!
- New construction inspections are especially useful for out-of-state buyers. EIG will be your eyes and ears on the ground, to ensure your new home meets your desires and your will be ready for you.
If you decide to take on the final inspection yourself, here are a few words of advice.
Make a List — in Writing!
During your inspection, make a list of needed repairs or adjustments. Be sure to get it all down in writing and verify your builder receives the list, either via certified mail or in-person.
Don’t Rush
Take your time walking through your new home. You want to be thorough and detailed in your inspection, so nothing is overlooked. Don’t feel pressured by the builder to “get it over with” — this is your home, and it should be perfect.
Plan Ahead of Schedule
Arrange your final inspection about a week before your closing date, that way if the builder needs to make any repairs, they have plenty of time to get it done. Inspecting too close to your set closing date will only push your move-in date back, should there be additional repairs.
If a self-inspection seems a bit daunting, leave it to us! We break down the new construction home inspection into 3 phases:
- Pre-Drywall Inspection: following the installation of framing, plumbing and electrical rough-in and just before the placement of insulation and drywall.
- Final Inspection: immediately before your final walk-through with your builder.
- 11-month Warranty Inspection: one final look at your home before your warranty expires.
A new construction home inspection should be thorough and inclusive of exterior and interior elements. Here are a few examples of what we’ll look for:
Exterior
- Foundation
- Roofing
- Framing
- Lot Drainage
- Doors & Windows
- Porches & Decks
- Sidewalks & Driveways
- Sprinkler System
- Pool/Spa
- Built-In Outdoor Appliances
Interior
- Electrical
- Plumbing
- Basements
- Crawl Spaces
- Ceilings
- Floors
- Attics
- Insulation
- Fireplaces
- Appliances
We Can Help!
Schedule your new home inspection with us today! We’re open seven days a week and are always accepting new clients.