Building a new home is a big investment, and making sure the home is built correctly is key. Scheduling inspections at the right stages of construction can help prevent costly problems later. For new construction, you should schedule three main inspections: the pre-drywall inspection (after framing and before walls are covered), the final walkthrough inspection (before closing on the home), and the 11-month warranty inspection (before the builder’s warranty expires).
Usually, the costs of new construction inspections range between $300 and $600, relative to the size and the geographical area of the home being assessed. Optimal building practices incorporate the schedule of inspections at relevant stages of the construction to allow for the early detection of problems. Pre-drywall, final walk through, and 11-month warranty check are some of the most common checks that are performed in new constructions.
Why Are Home Inspections for New Construction Important?
Many people think home inspections are only for older homes, but that’s not true. Even in new build homes, mistakes can happen. Workers may miss something, or there might be issues with the materials used. New home construction inspectors can spot these problems before they become serious.
Inspections help catch cosmetic issues or larger structural problems that could cost a lot of money to fix later. With inspections at different stages, you get peace of mind knowing your home is built right, and if there are any issues, they can be corrected before you move in.
What Inspections Are Required When Building a New Home?
When building a new house, there are several key inspections you should schedule. These inspections ensure that everything is done correctly and up to code. The home inspector looks at everything from the foundation to the finishing touches. Most homes go through three main inspections during the building process:
- Pre-drywall inspection
- Final walkthrough inspection
- 11-month warranty inspection
These are the stages where a new home construction inspector will thoroughly check different aspects of your home. By following this schedule, you can catch problems early and avoid costly repairs down the road.
Pre-Drywall Inspection: When and Why?
The first inspection happens before the drywall is installed. This is a critical time because it’s one of the last chances to see the “bones” of the house—things like the framing, plumbing, and electrical systems. Once the drywall is up, it will hide these elements, making it hard to fix any problems that might arise later.
At this stage, the home inspector looks at the foundation, framing, electrical wiring, plumbing lines, and HVAC system. Scheduling a pre-drywall inspection allows you to ensure that everything is built properly and according to plan before the walls are closed up. If any issues are found, they can be addressed immediately without having to tear down walls later.
Final Walkthrough Inspection Before Closing
The next inspection should take place during the final walkthrough, which happens just before you close on the house. This is your last opportunity to inspect the home before you officially become the owner.
The home inspector will go over the details, ensuring that all appliances are installed and working, plumbing and electrical systems are functioning correctly, heating and cooling systems are operational, and cosmetic finishes, such as paint and flooring, are in good condition.
Scheduling a final inspection for new construction ensures that your home is move-in ready. If the inspection reveals any issues, you can work with the builder to resolve them before closing. This can prevent future headaches and save you from having to deal with repairs as soon as you move in.
11-Month Warranty Inspection
Most builders offer a one-year warranty on new homes. Around the 11-month mark, it’s a good idea to schedule another inspection to check for any problems that may have developed since you moved in. This is known as the 11-month warranty inspection.
During this inspection, the home inspector will look for cracks or shifting in the foundation, settling issues in the framing or structure, problems with the plumbing or electrical systems, and cosmetic wear and tear, like chipped paint or loose flooring.
By getting this inspection before the builder’s warranty expires, you can make sure that any repairs needed are covered by the warranty. This saves you from having to pay for repairs out of pocket after the warranty ends.
When to Schedule Extra Inspections
If you’re building a custom home or a larger, more complex property, you might want to schedule additional inspections. Third-party inspections for new homes can be a smart move, especially if your home has unique features or uses high-end materials. These extra inspections ensure that every aspect of the build is reviewed thoroughly.
For example, if you’re building a home with advanced energy systems or custom finishes, a third-party inspector might specialize in these areas, giving you a more detailed evaluation. Extra inspections can also give you peace of mind, knowing that no detail has been overlooked.
How Long Does It Take to Schedule and Complete?
A common question homeowner have is: “How long does it take to schedule a home inspection?” The good news is that home inspections can usually be scheduled within a few days to a week, depending on the availability of the home inspector.
The home inspection time frame varies depending on the size of your home and the type of inspection being done. For a typical new construction inspection, it might take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours. After the inspection, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining any issues found, and if repairs are needed, your builder will take care of them before you move to the next phase.
What If Your New Home Isn’t Ready by Closing?
Sometimes, new construction may not be ready by the scheduled closing date. If this happens, it’s important to reschedule the final inspection. You don’t want to rush the inspection just to meet a deadline. It’s better to delay the closing slightly and ensure that everything in the house is finished and inspected properly.
This way, you avoid future issues that could arise from incomplete work. If your new home construction isn’t ready by the original closing date, your home inspector can work with you to find a new time to complete the inspection.
Choosing the Right Home Inspector for New Build Homes
Not all home inspectors are the same, and it’s important to choose one who specializes in new construction home inspections. Look for someone who is licensed, experienced, and thorough. A good inspector will provide a detailed report and explain any issues they find in a way that’s easy to understand.
Working with a qualified new home construction inspector ensures that your home is inspected properly and that nothing is overlooked. A great inspector can give you the confidence that your home is built to last.
Conclusion:
Scheduling home inspections for new construction at the right times is the key to ensuring your new home is built to high standards. With inspections at the pre-drywall stage, final walkthrough, and 11-month warranty mark, you can catch problems early and ensure your home is safe, sturdy, and move-in ready.
By choosing the right home inspector and following a clear inspection schedule, you’ll protect your investment and avoid costly repairs down the line.
