If you’re moving into a newly built home, it’s important to have an inspection. It may seem unnecessary because everything from the foundation to the flooring is brand new. However, it’s not uncommon for new homes to have defects. Here are a few reasons to order a home inspection on new construction.
Defects in Newly Built Homes
You don’t expect your new home to need immediate repair work. However, there are areas where inspectors often find defects with new construction, like:
- Grading and drainage problems that can lead to water in the basement and mold growth.
- Breaker panels sometimes have incorrectly-installed wiring.
- Foundation cracks occur from settling.
- Siding might be improperly installed.
- Outlet covers or switch plates may be missing.
- Poorly sealed windows and sliding glass doors decrease energy efficiency.
- Builders may have installed inadequate insulation for the local climate.
- Shingles are sometimes improperly installed or damaged during installation.
Home Inspection on New Construction will Locate Defects
Even though the house and all of its components are brand new, the build may not be perfect. Home construction is hectic. There are different teams working on your home’s structure and systems. This makes it difficult for your builder to monitor even in the best of situations.
Since builders typically outsource work to third-party contractors, it’s not possible to closely oversee the finished work of each team. They have to rely on each contractor’s management team to monitor their own workers. Sometimes, human error or oversight occurs in these situations, which is why it’s important to order a home inspection on new construction.
The home inspector will conduct a thorough examination of every system, structural component, and feature of your new home. He or she will provide a report detailing their findings.
Home Inspection on New Construction: Municipal Inspections
To make sure your home is in great shape, the city or county inspection won’t suffice. It is the municipal inspector’s job to verify the home meets the minimum requirements for habitation; a city inspector’s job does not involve conducting a two- to three-hour inspection. They are there to make sure the minimum building codes are in place.
Avoid Frustration After Moving in
Schedule a home inspection once construction is complete so that the inspector can identify any defects or safety issues before your final walkthrough. Your builder will be responsible for making the repairs and you won’t have to worry about work being done while you’re living in the home.
Order a home inspection so you can settle into your brand new home as seamlessly as possible.
Veriguard Home Inspections provides home inspections on new construction to northern New Jersey. Contact us to request our services.