You might think a new home doesn’t need an inspection because everything is brand new, but even new constructions can have issues affecting livability and stability. Scheduling a professional home inspection before buying is crucial to identify hidden flaws, safety hazards, or code violations.
Inspections ensure structural integrity, quality control, and code compliance, helping to detect and resolve problems early. It’s best to schedule an inspection after construction completion but before the final walkthrough to allow time for repairs. The inspection process includes a thorough evaluation of the property and systems, providing a detailed report that helps in negotiations and future maintenance planning.
Critical Stages in Inspecting New Home Constructions for Quality Assurance
New construction phase inspections are vital to ensure the home is being built correctly at each stage. Homeowners receive a comprehensive report detailing the construction progress, including completed tasks and any emerging problems. These inspections also help builders identify previously unnoticed issues and ensure they rectify any shortcuts taken. This process benefits both. The inspection of new constructions involves several critical stages to ensure the home is built correctly.
Essential Pre-pour Inspections for Foundation Integrity
Before pouring the foundation, inspections are conducted to check various critical aspects, including the trenches and footers, metal and pipe casings, and the depth and width of the footings to confirm they comply with the plans.
Inspectors also verify the proper placement and connection of all metal components and ensure the correct positioning of pipes and sleeves. Typically, the site is reviewed a few days before and after the foundation is poured to ensure everything is done correctly, although some inspectors may only conduct the inspection either before or after the foundation is poured.
Key Elements Assessed During Pre-drywall Inspections
Pre-drywall inspections evaluate critical elements, including warped, missing, or defective framing, exterior electrical and lighting fixtures, the quality and placement of wood, and the condition of exterior walls, sheeting, windows, and sealants.
They also check framing fasteners and connectors, anchor bolts, fire blocking, truss ties, and HVAC rough-ins and duct conditions. These inspections are crucial because using subpar materials or overlooking minor issues, such as a slight warp in a frame, can lead to costly repairs later.
Comprehensive Review of New Construction Homes
Similar to inspections of existing homes, this review covers multiple aspects, including plumbing, electrical systems, sewage, roof and attic structure, walls, ceilings, floors, doors and windows, fireplaces and chimneys, porches, decks, driveways, and patios, heating and cooling systems, water supply systems, appliances, and sprinkler systems.
This comprehensive inspection identifies issues and allows the builder time to address any problems. If issues are detected, the inspector will return to confirm that they have been resolved. Some companies even offer a free roof inspection, which is a vital part of ensuring your home is ready to withstand weather and time.
The Functionality Evaluation
It covers everything in the home to ensure proper functioning. Keep in mind that inspectors can only identify issues without invasive work. For problems within the walls, the inspector might need to drill through the drywall to investigate further.
Understanding Home Inspection Costs and Services
Home inspectors usually charge between $300 to $500, varying on your residence's size and location. Opting for an additional pre-drywall inspection might seem costly, but it ensures proper installation of structural elements and home systems, a perspective typically unavailable once the walls are up. Addressing any issues early on allows you to present a list of concerns to the builder for correction before closing up the walls.
Before your final walk-through with the builder, request your inspector to assess the house. Their trained eye can catch details often missed, which you can then include in your final checklist before making the final payment.
Specialty inspections, such as radon, well water, or termite inspections, expand beyond the standard scope. Prices can range from $25 to $200, depending on the complexity and equipment/lab testing needed. While a termite inspection is recommended for all potential homeowners, other specialty inspections depend on your location and specific concerns.
Comprehensive Home Inspection Checklist
When you enlist the services of a professional, anticipate a comprehensive examination encompassing the following:
- Evaluation of the roof’s condition
- Front entry and examination of the crawl space
- Inspection of the attic to identify potential issues
- Testing of appliances and essential systems for functionality
- Verification of proper operation of exterior and interior doors, including locks
- Confirmation of functionality of accessible windows, including locks
- Checking the electrical systems like lights, circuit breaker
- Assessment of plumbing fixtures
- Inspection of structural components to ensure adherence to best practices
These assessments are conducted systematically to ensure the proper functioning of all systems. Depending on your specific needs and requirements, you can customise or adjust the review process accordingly.
