Should I Have a Home Inspection on My New Construction Home?
Hello, I’m John Schultz, the proud owner of JDS Home Inspection Services located in Denver, Colorado. Today, I want to address a common concern among new-build homebuyers: the necessity of a home inspection for newly constructed homes. While it may seem redundant to inspect a brand new home, the reality is quite different. Let’s delve into why investing in an independent home inspection for your new-build is a decision you won’t regret.
Why You Should Hire a Home Inspector for Your New-Build
You’ve meticulously chosen a reputable builder, secured necessary permits, and eagerly awaited the completion of your dream home. Now it’s almost finished and you’re ready to close, right? Wait just a moment! Even with the best intentions and oversight, new construction projects are not immune to flaws. Here’s why.
Builders, despite their expertise, occasionally cut corners to meet deadlines or budgets. Additionally, subcontractors may not always adhere to the builder’s standards, leading to discrepancies in workmanship. These factors, compounded by the complexities of construction, make oversights and errors inevitable. After all, builders are only human. Their hope is that an independent home inspector won’t be called in, and problems with the home will go unrecognized and unaddressed until well after the expiration of your warranty.
By commissioning an independent home inspector before your final walk-through, you gain valuable insights into the property’s condition. From verifying the correct installation of structural elements to identifying potential material discrepancies, a qualified inspector acts as your advocate in ensuring your investment is sound.
Check out my article, 10 Problems an Inspector May Find in a New-Build Home if you are not yet convinced of the necessity of a home inspection before you close on your new-build.
When to Have Your New-Build Home Inspected
New construction inspections typically occur at 3 key stages:
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Pre-Drywall Inspection
Conducted before drywall is installed. This inspection allows for a thorough examination of exposed systems, ensuring proper installation of plumbing, wiring, and structural components to mitigate future risks. This type of inspection may only be performed on a new-build home, so it is an excellent idea to take advantage of it.
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Pre-Walkthrough Inspection
Conducted before the final walkthrough. Scheduled closer to the closing date, this assessment identifies any pending tasks before finalizing the purchase. While major systems are typically in place, minor unfinished jobs are noted for completion. This includes cosmetic defects like paint touch-ups you’ll want completed before move-in.
At this stage, it’s not uncommon for the inspector to uncover larger issues that escaped the builder’s notice, such as a sewer line backed up with construction debris, or an improperly installed dryer vent creating a fire hazard. You’ll want to be made aware of these issues before closing on your new home.
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Warranty Check Inspection
Conducted before the warranty on your new-build home expires. Occurring approximately a year after closing, this inspection aims to catch any latent issues covered under the home warranty. Addressing these concerns before your warranty expires shifts the responsibility back to the builder, safeguarding your investment and saving you money. You’ll definitely want to take advantage of this inspection before your warranty expires and the responsibility for these home repairs falls on your shoulders.
Choose JDS Home Inspection Services as Your Expert Inspector for Colorado New-Builds
Remember, exercising your right to an independent home inspection when buying new construction is in your best interest. Any reluctance from the builder should raise concerns and prompt further scrutiny. Even if you’ve been heavily involved in the building process or built the home yourself, it’s a good idea to consider the opinion of an outside pro and have a new-build home inspection.
JDS is your expert home inspector for your Colorado new construction home. We offer pre-drywall, pre-walkthrough, and warranty check inspections for new-builds in the entire Denver Metro region as well as Colorado Springs. Investing in a home inspection for your newly built home is a prudent decision that offers peace of mind and protects your investment. Don’t overlook this critical step in the home buying process. Contact JDS Home Inspection Services to schedule your Colorado new-build inspection today.