Here’s Why a New Construction Home Inspection is so Important
So, you’re thinking about buying a new construction home. Or maybe you’ve already made the decision and paid a deposit. Congrats!
Everything will be brand new. And you’ll be the first to move in, use the appliances, and enjoy every room. It’s just been built, so there won’t be any issues like you might find with a resale home, right?
Unfortunately, that’s not how it works. Even new construction homes have issues and problems. No home is perfect. And in the course of building, mistakes happen.
That’s why it’s so important to get a new home construction inspection. Let’s walk through how they work and what’s included.
What Is a New Home Inspection?
If you’ve considered buying a new construction home, you’ve likely heard of a builder’s walkthrough. This occurs when a builder’s representative walks you through the home to identify any issues once construction is complete. This typically involves cosmetic issues and finish work. Things like marks in the wall or damaged finishes.
A new home construction inspection is different. It involves a third-party home inspector evaluating the home’s structure, electrical infrastructure, plumbing, HVAC, roof, and foundation. It dives much deeper into the home than a builder’s walkthrough. A home inspection for new construction can take place in two phases: pre-drywall and pre-closing inspections. Each inspection will give you a complete picture of the home you’re purchasing.
So, Why Get a Home Inspection on New Construction?
During home construction, it’s not uncommon for defects and oversights to happen. Builders often work to stay on a specific timeline and battle elements such as weather or supply chain issues.
A home may have missing insulation or be improperly graded, which can lead to water drainage issues. Windows and doors may not be installed correctly. Home inspections for new construction will identify issues with your home’s critical infrastructure, such as plumbing issues
like leaks or water pressure problems. And it can identify improperly installed shingles or flashing, which could lead to leaks and damage.
Benefits of a New Home Construction Inspection
The most important outcome of a new construction home inspection is the knowledge you gain.
The report gives you information about the home you’re purchasing. And if there are issues, you’ll have the opportunity to address them with your builder before closing. This can often give you leverage and the opportunity to correct any significant problems before you occupy the home.
The documentation from a home inspection for new construction can be used in the event of any future warranty claims.
How a Home Inspection for New Construction Works
Most home inspections for new construction take anywhere from two to four hours, depending on the size of the house. A new home construction inspection will cover your entire house, including foundation and structural components, roof and attic spaces, your HVAC system, plumbing and hot water heater, windows, doors, weatherproofing, and grading and drainage.
You are welcome to attend the inspection, along with your real estate agent, if you have one. This is an ideal opportunity to ask questions and record important information. Once the inspection is finished, we’ll walk through the report and any issues that were uncovered. This information can then be sent to the builder.
Choosing A New Home Construction Inspector
Working with a reliable, experienced inspector is critical. You’ll want an inspector who is licensed in your state. An inspector with experience in new home construction inspections will have insight to help identify common issues in newly built homes.
It’s always okay to ask a potential inspector what they’ll review and how they put together the report. This will help you understand what kind of information they’ll provide.
Handling New Home Construction Inspection Pushback from Builders
Some builders may suggest that you don’t need a home inspection for new construction.. Always remember that you have the right to hire an inspector. While a final walkthrough inspection for new construction can be helpful, it may not give you all the information a full home inspection can.
New Home Construction in Columbia, SC
A home inspection for new construction is a crucial step in purchasing your new home. Our team has extensive experience inspecting new construction homes. The small investment of paying for a home inspection can give you peace of mind and the information you need when making one of the biggest purchases of your life. You can find out more about our process and schedule your inspection on our site.
