Do new constructions really need a home inspection?

Can you picture the ideal house hunting scene? For many, that means a beautiful neighborhood with signs advertising "newly built homes for sale." It seems like a dream come true for many homebuyers. After all, what could possibly go wrong with a newly constructed house? 

The answer might surprise you.

Despite the pristine facades and sparkling new appliances, new construction homes are far from immune to issues. From structural defects to shoddy craftsmanship, there’s a host of problems that could be lurking beneath the fresh coat of paint. Identifying these potential problems is the purpose of a home inspection — and for new builds, it’s equally as critical.

Here’s everything you need to know about home inspections for new construction, why they’re important, and what you should be looking for.  Use this guide to ensure that when you finally enter your brand-new home, you do so with confidence and peace of mind.

New home Inspections offer valuable insights

It’s not every day you make the monumental decision to purchase a new home, and the process can feel challenging. Unless you work in the building industry yourself, you’re likely to encounter a slew of baffling legal terms and complicated real estate laws. Why not approach the process with as much knowledge as possible?

Remember: the more you know, the more power you hold. This is important when it comes to each carefully considered decision throughout the homebuying process. Here, a home inspection offers valuable insights that helps you make an informed decision about the property you’re buying.

Many homebuyers wrongly assume that a new build is exempt from the need for a thorough home inspection, since it’s brand new. Unfortunately, this belief can be costly. Although some states require home builders to offer warranties, these typically phase out after just a few years. Often, that’s not long enough for defects to fully surface.

A new home inspection serves to protect your investment. It can also help detect issues early, giving you the leverage to negotiate with builders before you move in. While it’s not a legal requirement, it’s an astute move that savvy buyers make to safeguard their purchase.

Why you shouldn’t waive a new home inspection

There could be an instance when the builder advocates for skipping the home inspection, under the pretext that they stand by their work. However, this poses several risks that could leave you vulnerable post-purchase.

By not having a proper inspection done, you’re essentially taking the builder’s word that the home is in prime condition. Given that you’ve likely made one of the most significant financial investments of your life, is this assurance worth the paper it’s not written on?

Waiving your right to an inspection can lead to unexpected and costly surprises after you’ve moved in. Defects can often take a few years to manifest. Then, without an inspection report as evidence, remediation could become your personal financial burden. It’s a gamble many homebuyers simply can’t afford to take.

The typical new build home inspection process 

When the home is about to have its drywall installed, you and your inspector can view the framework and the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Any issues or irregularities found at this earliest stage can be addressed before they become permanently concealed. Builders should be accommodating during this phase—they’d much prefer to deal with problems now rather than post-construction when issues can be more labor and cost-intensive. (Here are 10 questions to as a home builder) 

Next, you’ll inspect the home during a final walk-through. At this stage, the home should be completed and ready for delivery, with all systems functional. You, accompanied by your inspector, should scrutinize every square inch, check appliances, and examine the general usability of the home. This is your last opportunity to request fixes before closing.

Creating your inspection checklist

Each home may have unique features or eccentricities that require special attention. That said, these general categories and the associated checklist items can help guide your comprehensive inspection plan.

Exterior and interior structures

• Foundation, basement, and structural components
• Doors, windows, and trim
• Walls, floors, and ceilings for water damage or settlement cracks
• Stairways and railings

Systems and mechanicals

• Electrical system and appliances
• Plumbing and the condition of pipes and fixtures
• HVAC system and air quality
• Insulation and energy efficiency

The fine points

• Lighting and switches
• Wall sockets and wiring condition
• Ventilation systems
• Drywall installation quality

Final walk-through items

• Finalize paperwork and bring any required documentation
• Compile a list of key points to be checked

The post-inspection phase

After the inspection, you re-engage with the builder and, based on the report and any additional findings at the final walk-through, come to an agreement on repairs or compensation. It’s paramount to document all agreements in writing, detailing who’s responsible for which fixes and by what date.

A thorough inspection report gives you the standing to ensure your new construction home is delivered in the condition you expect and deserve. It also offers invaluable peace of mind as you cross the threshold into what is hopefully the start of a lifetime of happiness in your new home.

Learn what fixes are mandatory after an inspection

Understand and leverage your inspection rights

A good inspector is worth their weight in gold, but the real value lies in how you interpret and use their findings. It’s important to realize that you have the right to request repairs or even to walk away from the purchase if the issues are severe enough.

Be proactive and communicative during this process. Ask your inspector about the severity of any issues they find and the implications of not acting. Your primary aim should be to leave the negotiations with the best possible resolution for any identified problems.

Setting realistic expectations

Not every issue is grounds for deserting the sale, and not every defect requires fixing by the builder. Set realistic expectations for what you hope the builder will correct and what you’re willing to compromise on. Due to the nature of construction, perfect homes don’t exist, but major issues shouldn’t be glossed over.

Negotiating with builders

Approach the builder with the inspection report and discuss next steps. Some may be open to all repairs, especially if the issues affect the integrity or safety of the home. Others may be more resistant, especially to cosmetic complaints.

When you approach the process with a clear understanding of your rights and the limits of those rights, the negotiation back-and-forth becomes a lot smoother. It’s important to remember that you’re not unreasonable for bringing potential defects to the attention of the builder, and not every flaw is equal. Ultimately, good communication will ensure both sides feel good about next steps post-inspection. 

Find out whether you can walk away after the final walk through

For new home peace of mind, don’t skip the inspection

The allure of a new construction home is undeniable, but don’t fall into the complacency trap. Always conduct a home inspection — it’s a small price to pay for the security and longevity of your new investment. Keep in mind the unique challenges and opportunities associated with new builds and prepare yourself with the knowledge to make informed decisions.

In the end, a well-executed home inspection can turn the excitement of a new home purchase into a reality rooted in safety, quality, and the assurance that you’ve made a sound investment in your future. With careful preparation, a keen eye, and a responsible approach, you can turn a new build into your beloved home.