It’s tempting to forego the inspection process when building a new home. The home is brand new, so how could there be defects? Here are some reasons why a home inspection on new construction is just as important as a home inspection on an older home.
New Homes Can Have Problems
Building a new home involves a series of tasks completed by numerous contractors. Builders normally subcontract specific work out to different companies and individuals. This makes it difficult to completely monitor all the systems being constructed. Even the most conscientious builders can miss serious defects that should have been fixed.
Here are common problems that a home inspection on new construction might uncover:
- Missing siding
- Broken roof trusses
- Missing attic insulation
- Improper crawl space ventilation, leading to condensation and water damage
- Foundation problems
- Unattached ducts inside the HVAC system
- Grading & drainage issues
- Window leaks
- Electrical problems
- Plumbing issues
Municipal Inspections Aren’t Enough
You might think that a home inspection is the same as a municipal building inspection, but city officials don’t have the same amount of time nor is it their job to inspect a home as thoroughly as a third-party home inspector.
Municipal inspectors see several homes per day and can’t invest three to four hours conducting their inspections because they are under strict time constraints. They are only required to inspect for basic code compliance, which is the bare minimum building standards.
Get Problems Fixed Before Moving In
Moving into your brand new home and then finding problems that need to be fixed is stressful and inconvenient. It’s always best to perform a home inspection on new construction and get the builder to fix defects before moving into your new home.
Have a Home Inspection on New Construction to Avoid Future Problems
Keep your home safe from major problems in the future. You may end up dealing with rotted roof sheathing if you don’t get any raised shingles repaired before moving in. Gas leaks should be repaired to avoid safety issues. You’ll wonder why your utility bills are so high if you never realized that attic insulation was inadequate.
Make More Money When Selling with a Home Inspection on New Construction
If you eventually move out of this house, you can lose money if a buyer’s inspection uncovers any defects dating back to the original build. At that point, it’s far too late to have the builder fix those problems.
Get All Three Inspections Done
Pre-Pour Inspection: This inspection needs to be done before workers pour the foundation. Have an inspector come in and check for:
- Vapor barrier integrity
- Debris in the excavation
- Correct post-tensioning cable spacing
- Proper rough plumbing installation
Pre-Drywall Inspection: Your inspector will look at the plumbing, wiring, and insulation before the walls go up. This should get completed as soon as the framing, windows, and roof are installed.
Final inspection: This is the typical inspection that’s completed after the home is finally finished.
Request a home inspection on new construction from a professional home inspector. It’s the best way to protect your investment and avoid issues down the road.
Gardner Home Inspections provides home inspection services, including new construction phase inspections, to Northern Alabama. Contact us to book our services.