You finally completed the construction of your new home, and you are almost ready to move in. Did you know that even a brand-new home, with all new electricity, plumbing, and all the other necessities, needs to go through a home inspection first? Yes, even new homes could potentially have issues that need to be caught before you move in.
Common Issues in New Homes
In a perfect world, a newly constructed home should have zero issues, but the reality includes miscommunication and rushed jobs. There are so many different people going in and out of your homes job site on a daily basis. There are multiple different subcontractors working on different systems throughout your home. And while they are all working separately, it’s impossible for a builder to check all phases of construction. Here are a few examples of issues found in new homes:
- Structural defects, such as foundation cracks, improper grading, and poor framing.
- Drainage and grading issues, which can cause water and structural damage in the future.
- HVAC issues, including thermostats not working correctly and loose connections.
- Plumbing issues, such as hot and cold faucets reversed, improper piping, leaks, etc.
- Electric problems, like improperly wired outlets, open grounds, and missing switch plates.
- Incomplete projects, such as insufficient insulation, half-installed fixtures, missing pieces of hardware, etc.
Do You Need More Than One Inspection?
A new home should get inspected at least two or three times. The first time the inspector will look at the home before walls are closed to get a better look behind inside and inspect framing and system installations while they’re exposed. The second inspection occurs before the entire frame is built, and also considered the “pre-drywall/sheetrock” inspection. The last inspection is the very last phase of the inspection process where an inspector looks to be sure the home is safe and built to code.
What Are Home Inspectors Looking For?
There are a wide variety of features inspectors look at throughout each stage of the inspection process to ensure the safety of your home. Each stage has a list of various places the inspector will look at to be sure that everything is running properly.
Pre-pour Inspection
- Drain, waste, vent, and water lines
- Plumbing
- Soil
- Drainage
Second Inspection
- Beams
- Nails, screws, studs, and plates
- Stairwells
- Fire blocking and draft stopping
- Leaks, water intrusion, mold risks
- Wiring
- HVAC
Final Inspection
- Roof, chimney, and gutters
- Doors and windows
- Foundation, basements, and crawlspaces
- Exterior items such as driveways, walkways, sheds, etc.
- Plumbing, toilets, sinks, and sump pumps
- Electricity such as circuit breakers and panelboards
- Attic, insulation, and ventilation
- Appliances such as dishwashers, ovens, etc.
For new homes, home inspections are all about being proactive. The faster you catch potential issues in your home, the quicker those issues can be dealt with. Are you wrapping up a new construction or thinking about starting one? Contact the skilled home inspectors at Homeinex Corporation and book an appointment. We have dedicated and knowledgeable inspectors who make sure the home you’re building is the perfect one.