Do you need a New Construction Inspection?

Why you never skip put on a new construction inspection

If a home is a new construction, and everything is brand new, isn’t it in perfect condition?

First of all, no and secondly, no

A new construction Inspection is different in the fact that it’s a heavily “cosmetic” Inspection.

In a new construction everything is checked for functionality like a regular inspection; electrical, HVAC, plumbing, appliances etc. But on top of that there’s the finishes, dry wall, painting, and everything visible to the eye. Whether it be paint, over spray, chipped tiles, or unprofessional dry wall installation, it’s all checked with a fine-tooth comb.

Obviously depending on the developer, restrictions of fixes may apply, such as a chipped or not flush tile will be replaced only if it meets a certain size of defect. And most developers do not allow for removal of electrical panels, or for a walk on roof inspection (why it’s important to vet your inspector and make sure he has the proper tools)

When do you do the inspection?

A New Construction inspection is done prior to delivery of the home, conducted at your final walkthrough, or pre walk through. You may also have an inspector inspect during the building process, but this may be more difficult to facilitate and have a builder agree.

Most builders will offer a 12-month warranty on your new home where the developer will fix, replace or remedy any problems that may rise so it’s always recommended to conduct a new inspection at the 11-month mark. After you conduct your 11-month warranty inspection, you then take that report to your builder if needed with ample time to fix the issues.

How much does it cost for a new construction inspection?

The new construction inspections can cost anywhere between $400-$1200. This cost is dependent on the size and complexity of the property, as the new construction inspection is extremely detail oriented and time consuming. It may seem like a costly thing to do but well worth it, and a large % of the inspections come up with a defect that covers the cost if it were done by a contractor later on.

SIDE NOTE: MANY BUILDER’S REPS WILL CONVINCE YOU OR MANIPULATE YOU INTO THINKING YOU SHOULDN’T OR DONT NEED A WALKTHROUGH NEW CONSTRUCTION INSPECTION.

Always go with a private company with no interest in the property to conduct this. New home builders will have a representative on their behalf conduct a walkthrough inspection with you.