With older homes, it’s very common to assume that there will be issues. Things will have to be updated, replaced, renovated, etc. An inspection in this instance makes sense, but why would you need one for new construction? Surely it’s gone through the necessary measures as it was being built? While chances of an issue are slimmer than an older house, that doesn’t mean it never happens. New construction is exciting and it’s one of the best times to get an inspection as a preemptive precaution. The inspector can find potential flaws, point out defects, and more. Here’s what you need to know about getting a new construction inspection.
What are the benefits?
An inspector is there to be an unbiased, second set of eyes for the construction crew, the designer, and the owner of the property. Things can get rushed, missed, or situations can arise that are out of everyone’s control, like the weather. While everyone strives to make it the perfect build, the reality is that sometimes that’s not always the case. Here are a few benefits having a certified home inspector check out your new construction:
● Repairs are on the builder’s dime: While things do happen, that doesn’t mean the owner is on the hook for the extra cost. If there’s an issue with the construction or building, such as plumbing, wiring, and anything else that might not have been done correctly. It’s extremely important to find any issues as soon as possible to get them fixed.
● Catching unseen issues: Just because you can’t physically get into the space, doesn’t mean they can’t be inspected. For example, areas like the attic or cramped crawl spaces may be difficult to get in to see how well it’s insulated. The inspector has multiple instruments such as an infrared thermometer to help aid their assessment.
● Preventing disasters: The municipal building inspector usually isn’t as extensive with their inspection. They’re checking to make sure the building is secure and meets the codes of the city, county, or state. Here are a few things that a certified home inspector will catch, that the municipal inspector will not:
○ Improper or missing flashing on the roof
○ Improperly sacred gutters
○ Cracks in the foundation
○ Wiring and piping not properly sealed
○ Insufficient waterproofing or drainage
How many times should you get an inspection?
For the best results and overall performance of the house, you should have an inspection up to four times throughout the build. They are:
1. Right after the foundation is poured to check for settling, cracks, or other issues with the concrete.
2. Once the framing has been constructed, as well as the plumbing and electrical have been installed.
3. Right before you move in, the inspector can check for drainage and sealing problems with the exterior and interior of the house. They will also check:
○ Windows and doors are sealed
○ Roof facing is secure and watertight
○ Railings are secure on porches, decks, etc.
○ The plumbing is working with no leaks
○ The water pressure is at the right level
○ The outlets and lights are working and more.
4. The last inspection happens before the warranty runs out on the build. If anything needs to be repaired after the warranty is up, the homeowner will need to pay for it.
