NEW CONSTRUCTION INSPECTIONS
NEW CONSTRUCTION INSPECTIONS
Inspections are critical at three separate points for a new home; during construction, just prior to purchase and before the expiration of the builder’s warranty.
First Call can inspect your new home at every milestone. Make sure your builder knows your getting inspections. Inspections may result in more attention to detail while your home is being built.
A professional, independent evaluation is also useful to validate any issues or concerns you want to bring to your builder.
BUILDING OR BUYING A NEW HOME?
1
FRAMING/PRE-DRYWALL INSPECTION
New construction home buyers should have a framing / pre-drywall inspection done during the construction process. It is critical to inspect a home’s framework and major components such as HVAC, plumbing and electrical. A framing / pre-drywall inspection will determine if a builder uses sound building practices and can also identify issues early in the building process that may be costly to fix once the home is completed.
Timing is important, a framing / pre-drywall inspection should be performed after municipal building inspectors approve all major work and certify the home meets local code requirements but before insulation and drywall is installed.
2
WALK-THROUGH/CLOSING INSPECTION
Prior to purchasing a newly constructed home we can perform a “walk-through inspection” to identify defective or incomplete items. Don’t assume new homes are perfect. Typically, the cost of a walk-through inspection is recouped by identifying items that require repair. A walk-through inspection will include:
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Structural Components – foundation, framing, attic, crawl space and/or basement
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Exterior – decks, porches, walkways, trim, siding, doors and windows
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Roof Systems – roofing materials, flashing's, roof drainage
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Plumbing, electrical systems and heating / cooling systems
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Interiors – ceilings, walls, flooring, doors, kitchen and bath areas, appliances
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Insulation and ventilation
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Garages, sheds and outbuildings
3
END OF YEAR/WARRANTY INSPECTION
Many builders offer a builder’s warranty on newly constructed homes. A one-year inspection should be performed approximately 30 days prior to the expiration of the builder’s one-year new home warranty.
This inspection addresses any warranty-related concerns that you may want to bring to the builder’s attention, and allows time for any necessary repairs before the warranty expires.
The Right Qualifications
American Society of Home Inspectors
