Buying a new construction home is an exciting experience. After months of watching your dream home being built from the ground up, move-in day finally arrives. But before you start unpacking boxes, it’s important to thoroughly inspect your new property. A new construction property inspection helps identify any defects, damage or unfinished details that need to be addressed before closing on the home.
With so many complex systems in a house, it’s easy for problems to arise during construction. Don’t assume everything was done perfectly—take the time to carefully evaluate every aspect of your new property. A new construction property inspection helps ensure you don’t inherit any expensive issues that should have been caught and fixed by the builder.
Why a New Construction Inspection Matters
Some people may think that a new construction property inspection is unnecessary since the home is brand new. However, construction defects are remarkably common. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), over 90% of home builders have faced a defect claim in the past 5 years.
The most commonly reported defects include:
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Faulty installation or leaks in plumbing, roofing and siding
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Improper ventilation in the attic or crawlspace
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Cracked floors and walls or uneven surfaces
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Malfunctioning electrical, heating and cooling systems
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Defective fireplaces, chimneys and ventilation
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Basement or foundation damage caused by improper drainage
While minor cosmetic flaws can be easily fixed, serious structural or system defects can cost tens of thousands of dollars to repair. Catching these construction errors before closing or move-in saves you a tremendous headache down the road. A new construction property inspection identifies any issues left behind by builders and subcontractors, so you don’t get stuck footing the bill.
What’s Checked During a New Construction Inspection
A new construction inspection is typically very comprehensive, evaluating all aspects of the home inside and out. While the specifics can vary based on your property, here are some of the main things examined:
Outdoor Areas
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Drainage: Check for proper grading, water runoff and drainage around the foundation to prevent flooding, cracks or water seepage into the basement.
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Landscaping: Ensure plants and trees are an appropriate distance from the structure. Roots or branches in contact with the home can interfere with drainage and cause foundation damage.
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Exterior utilities: Test all exterior electrical outlets, spigots, gas lines and water/sewer connections for proper installation.
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Siding & trim: Look for gaps, cracks, uneven application or other damage that could lead to water intrusion or pest entry.
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Masonry: Scan for cracked, uneven or improperly sealed brick, stone, stucco, concrete and masonry.
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Windows/doors: Confirm proper installation, operation, weatherstripping, latches, seals and hardware. Check for broken glass, scratches or damage.
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Attached structures: Inspect garages, porches, decks and balconies for flaws in structural work, waterproofing, railings, stairs and safety.
Roofing
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Shingles/roofing: Look for loose, damaged, missing or improperly installed shingles and roofing. Check flashing around chimneys, vents and valleys.
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Gutters & downspouts: Confirm proper drainage, pitch, placement, and sealing. Check for leaks, clogs or water overflowing from gutters.
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Chimneys: Scan for loose or missing bricks, cracked crowns, leaky flashing or damage to the flu and crown.
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Attic ventilation: Make sure vents are properly installed for sufficient airflow to prevent moisture accumulation and overheating.
Interior Areas
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Walls & ceilings: Check for drywall damage or flaws like cracking, uneven joints, gaps, or nail pops. Scan for plumb/level installation and sufficient insulation.
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Flooring: Evaluate for uneven subflooring, loose floorboards or tiles, gaps between boards or flooring damage. Check for squeaks or movement underfoot.
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Doors & windows: Confirm proper installation, operation, weatherstripping, hardware function and locks. Check for damage to frames, glass, screens, etc.
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Cabinets & counters: Look for flaws in installation, operation of doors/drawers, and quality of materials/workmanship.
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Plumbing: Turn on all faucets, showers, toilets. Check water pressure, drainage, leaks, clogs or dripping pipes. Ensure no water damage.
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Electrical: Test all lights, switches, outlets, wiring, breakers and fixtures for proper function. Scan for loose connections or improper/unsafe installation.
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HVAC: Verify heating, cooling and ventilation systems are properly installed and functioning optimally throughout the home.
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Fireplace: Inspect masonry, damper, flue and chimney for issues. Test gas logs, fans and venting. Check for damage or code violations.
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Insulation: Verify adequate insulation levels in walls, attic and crawl spaces per code. Check for gaps or settling.
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Garage: Test garage door and opener operation, check ceilings, walls, insulation and fire separation from living space.
Major Systems
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Foundation: Scan interior and exterior for cracks, moisture damage or structural issues. Check for levelness and grading.
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Framing: Look for structural damage or flaws in roof, floor, wall, ceiling and stair framing that could impact structural integrity.
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Ventilation: Confirm adequate venting to attic, soffits, crawlspace and bathrooms to prevent moisture and humidity damage.
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Gas lines: Sniff test gas connections and piping to detect leaks. Verify proper shut-offs and pressure.
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Water heater: Check for damage, leaks, proper installation, venting and seismic strapping. Test temperature and pressure relief valves.
Hiring the Right Inspector
Not all home inspectors are qualified to inspect new construction. Look for an inspector who specifically has expertise with new homes, as well as these credentials:
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Certification from InterNACHI, ASHI or a relevant home inspection organization
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Minimum of 500 inspections completed
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Background in construction, architecture, engineering or related field
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Strong attention to detail and use of cutting-edge equipment like thermal imaging cameras
Also ask if the inspector provides a written report with supporting photos and video of any issues found. This documentation gives you leverage for getting the builder to address major flaws under their warranty.
Avoid inspectors who seem rushed or don’t take the time to thoroughly explain their findings. The best will share insider knowledge about how to spot construction defects so you learn what to look for as a new homeowner.
When to Schedule the Inspection
Ideally, a new construction property inspection is completed just prior to closing or taking occupancy, after all work is finished. Multiple inspections at different stages of construction help catch issues early, but may not be possible on a buyer’s budget.
At minimum, a final walk-through inspection should include both the interior and exterior, and check that:
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Construction is 100% complete, including landscaping, driveway and sidewalks
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Utilities and mechanical systems have been tested and are performing properly
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There is no damage to finishes like floors or countertops from other contractors
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Any agreed upon home modifications have been completed properly
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Home is clean and ready for move-in with no construction debris or issues
Spotting defects ahead of time gives you the most leverage working with the builder to complete repairs and prevent later headaches. Don’t let the excitement of moving in overshadow taking these important quality control steps.
What to Do If Issues Are Found
No newly constructed home is perfect, so some small flaws are to be expected. A reputable builder should readily fix minor cosmetic issues like drywall cracks or sticking doors. However, major functional or structural defects uncovered should be formally addressed before closing.
If serious problems are identified during your inspection, remain calm and take the following steps:
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Review the full inspection report and documented evidence of defects
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Make a list of all issues and determine if they violate building codes or contractual plans
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Present the list to your builder and allow them time to make repairs
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Get all fixes in writing from the builder along with a schedule for completion before closing
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Conduct a re-inspection after repairs to confirm issues have been properly addressed
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Consult an attorney if the builder refuses to make repairs or correct structural issues
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Do not close until satisfied that major defects have been fixed; you lose leverage after closing
While a new construction inspection may reveal some needed repairs, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your new home’s structural integrity and systems have been verified. Enjoy your exciting move-in day, and many happy years in your beautiful new custom home!
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