Why New Homes Need Inspections: Don’t Skip This Step!

While it might seem counterintuitive to inspect a brand-new home, the truth is that mistakes and oversights can happen during construction. These issues aren’t always obvious and can lead to bigger problems down the road if not addressed early. A home inspection ensures that everything is up to standard before you move in.

Even in new builds, you can’t rely on everything being perfect just because it’s new. Here’s why:

1. Construction Defects Happen
   New homes are built quickly, often by large teams of subcontractors who are responsible for various aspects of the construction. With so many moving parts, mistakes can slip through the cracks. Common issues in new homes include:

• Incorrect installations of electrical wiring, HVAC systems, or plumbing
• Faulty roofing or flashing, leading to potential leaks
• Improper grading around the foundation, which can cause drainage issues
• Misaligned doors or windows that don’t close properly

An inspection ensures that these problems are identified and corrected before they become costly issues in the future.

2. Building Code Compliance Isn’t Always Enough
   While new homes are typically inspected by city or county building code officials during construction, these inspections focus on ensuring the home meets minimum safety standards—not necessarily on the quality of workmanship. A home inspection provides a more thorough evaluation of the property, focusing on both quality and safety.

Our inspectors at 1st Choice Inspection Services go beyond code compliance to ensure that all systems are working properly and that the craftsmanship meets high standards.

3. Catch Problems Before the Warranty Expires
   Most new homes come with a builder’s warranty that covers repairs for a certain period, often one year. Scheduling a home inspection before your warranty expires can help catch any issues that might be covered under the warranty, allowing you to have repairs made at no additional cost to you.

A thorough inspection can uncover potential problems that may not be immediately noticeable but could lead to bigger headaches later on.

4. Verify Proper Installation of Major Systems
   Even in new construction, it’s possible for major systems like the HVAC, plumbing, and electrical to be installed improperly. These systems are essential for the functionality and comfort of your home, and even small mistakes can lead to costly repairs or inefficiencies.

A professional inspection ensures that these systems are installed correctly and meet modern safety and efficiency standards.

5. Foundation and Structural Issues
   While foundation and structural issues are less common in new homes, they can still occur, especially if the property has been built on uneven soil or if there were mistakes made during the construction of the foundation. Problems like cracks, uneven floors, or shifting can develop over time, so it’s essential to catch them early.

A home inspection checks the foundation, framing, and overall structural integrity of the house, giving you peace of mind that your new home is built to last.

At 1st Choice Inspection Services, we provide a comprehensive evaluation of new homes, ensuring that no detail is overlooked. Here’s what we cover:

1. Roof and Exterior
   We check for proper installation of roofing materials, flashing, gutters, and siding. This helps prevent leaks, water damage, and future maintenance issues.
2. Foundation and Structure
   Our inspectors assess the foundation for any cracks, shifting, or signs of settling, ensuring that the home is structurally sound. We also examine the framing, walls, and ceilings for alignment and stability.
3. HVAC, Plumbing, and Electrical Systems
   We inspect the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems for proper installation and function, as well as evaluate the plumbing for leaks or improperly installed fixtures. We also ensure that the electrical system is up to code and functioning safely.
4. Windows and Doors
   Misaligned or improperly installed windows and doors can lead to energy loss and difficulty opening or closing. We check each window and door for proper function and sealing.
5. Attic and Insulation
   We ensure that the attic is properly ventilated and insulated to prevent moisture buildup and improve energy efficiency.
6. Drainage and Grading
   We inspect the grading around the foundation to ensure that water is properly directed away from the home. Improper grading can lead to water pooling around the foundation, which can cause long-term damage.

7. Interior Features
We inspect floors, walls, ceilings, countertops, and cabinetry for proper installation and finishing. Our team checks for cracks, uneven surfaces, or gaps that could indicate poor craftsmanship.

It’s a good idea to schedule your inspection after the builder completes construction but before your final walkthrough. This gives you the opportunity to address any issues with the builder while the home is still under warranty.

At 1st Choice Inspection Services, we recommend scheduling an inspection as soon as possible to avoid delays and to ensure your new home is in perfect condition when you move in.