Inspecting New Construction: Why It's Important and What to Expect

Buying a newly constructed home can be an exciting experience, but it's important to remember that even new homes can have issues. That's why it's crucial to get an inspection on new construction before finalizing your purchase. In this blog post, we'll discuss why inspections on new construction are necessary, what to expect during an inspection, and some tips for choosing an inspector.

Why are inspections on new construction necessary?

You might think that a new home wouldn't need an inspection since it's brand new and hasn't been lived in yet. However, this is not the case. Just because a home is new doesn't mean it's perfect, and there can be issues that arise during the construction process that may not be immediately apparent to the untrained eye. Some common issues that can be found in new construction include:

Poor workmanship:  If the builder cuts corners or rushes through certain aspects of the construction process, it can lead to shoddy workmanship that could cause problems down the road.

Code violations:  Even if the builder had good intentions, they may have overlooked certain building codes or regulations that could create safety hazards or other issues.

Material defects:  While new materials are generally less prone to defects than older ones, there can still be issues with the materials used in construction that could affect the quality of the home.

Design flaws:  If the home's design is flawed in some way, it could lead to problems with the home's functionality or durability.

What to expect during an inspection:  During an inspection of new construction, the inspector will look at all the major systems and components of the home, including the foundation, roofing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and more. They will also check for any code violations or other issues that could affect the home's safety or livability.

One of the advantages of getting an inspection on new construction is that the inspector can catch issues before you move in, which can save you time, money, and headaches down the road. For example, if the inspector discovers a leak in the roof or a problem with the electrical wiring, you can request that the builder fix the issue before closing on the home.

Choosing an inspector:  When choosing an inspector for new construction, it's important to look for someone who has experience with this type of inspection. While any qualified home inspector should be able to do an inspection on new construction, someone who has experience specifically in this area will be better equipped to spot issues that may be unique to new homes.

Additionally, you should look for an inspector who is licensed and insured in your state. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you're working with a professional who is qualified to do the job.

Conclusion

Getting an inspection on new construction is an important step in the home buying process. Even if you're buying a brand-new home, there can still be issues that need to be addressed, and an inspection can help catch those issues before they become major problems. By choosing a qualified inspector with experience in new construction, you can ensure that you're making a sound investment in your new home.