What to Expect From New Home Inspections

Are you in the process of purchasing or constructing a new home? While it may seem unnecessary to get a new home inspection for a brand-new property, it ensures that your investment is sound and secure. 

A new home inspection conducted by a professional home inspector can help catch construction mistakes that can lead to costly repairs down the road. So what does a new home inspection typically cover, and when should you schedule one? 

What is a New Home Inspection?

A new home inspection is a thorough evaluation of the construction quality and overall condition of a newly built home. It is typically conducted by a professional home inspector who specializes in inspecting new construction.

During a new home inspection, the inspector examines various aspects of the property to ensure that it meets building codes, safety standards, and quality expectations. This includes assessing the structural integrity, checking for proper installation of systems and components, identifying any defects or deficiencies, and providing a detailed report of their findings.

What Does a New Home Inspection Cover?

A new home inspection is a comprehensive examination of your new house's major systems and structural components. It ensures everything is up to code and functions as it should.

A qualified home inspector, working independently for you, will thoroughly check various aspects of your home, taking notes, measurements, and pictures to create a detailed report. This report is your golden ticket to peace of mind and potentially saving money on costly repairs down the road.

Key Areas for Inspection

While specific aspects may vary, here's a rundown of areas typically checked during a new home inspection:

Foundation and Structural Components

During the new home inspection, the inspector will closely evaluate the foundation, walls, roof, and other structural elements to ensure they are in sound condition and compliant with building codes. This entails checking for any signs of damage, settling, or construction errors that could compromise the home's stability and safety. 

Exterior Components

The exterior components of the property will be thoroughly examined to ensure they are properly installed and functioning as intended. The inspector will assess the siding, including materials such as vinyl, wood, or brick, to check for any signs of damage, looseness, or improper installation. 

Windows and doors will be inspected to verify that they open, close, and lock correctly and that the weatherstripping is in good condition. The inspector will also evaluate the exterior features, such as decks, porches, and balconies, to ensure they are structurally sound and meet safety standards. 

Interior Systems

The interior systems of the property, including electrical, plumbing, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems, will undergo a detailed evaluation to confirm compliance with building standards and to assess their operational functionality. 

The electrical inspection involves examining the wiring, outlets, switches, and electrical panels to identify any potential safety hazards, code violations, or signs of faulty installation. 

The plumbing inspection focuses on assessing the water supply, drainage, fixtures, and water heaters for any leaks, improper connections, or inadequate water pressure. The HVAC assessment involves checking the heating and cooling systems, ductwork, and ventilation to ensure they are properly installed and functioning effectively. 

Insulation and Ventilation

The inspector will thoroughly evaluate the insulation and ventilation systems to determine their adequacy in maintaining energy efficiency and ensuring occupants' comfort. 

This will involve assessing the insulation levels in walls, ceilings, and floors to verify that they meet the recommended standards for thermal efficiency. Proper insulation helps regulate indoor temperatures, reduces energy costs, and enhances comfort. 

The inspector will also examine the ventilation systems, including exhaust fans and ductwork, to ensure adequate airflow and moisture control. Proper ventilation not only contributes to indoor air quality but also prevents issues such as mold growth and structural damage. 

Safety Features

the inspector will thoroughly assess the safety features present in the property to ensure the protection of its occupants. This includes checking the installation and functionality of smoke detectors, which alert residents to potential fires and provide early warnings for evacuation. 

Carbon monoxide detectors will also be inspected to detect the presence of this odorless gas, which can be life-threatening if undetected. 

Other safety features required by building codes, such as handrails on stairs, proper egress windows, and secure locks on doors and windows, will also be reviewed to confirm their compliance and effectiveness in promoting a safe living environment. 

Finishes and Cosmetic Details

The primary focus is on assessing the structural and functional aspects of the property to ensure safety and proper operation. However, the inspector may also take note of any cosmetic issues or finishing details that are not up to standard. This could include minor flaws in paint or finish, cosmetic damage to walls or flooring, or imperfections in cabinetry or trim work. 

While these cosmetic issues do not necessarily impact the safety or functionality of the home, they can affect the overall aesthetic appeal and perceived value of the property.

Why Do You Need a New Home Inspection If It’s a New Home?

A brand new house means a clean slate. So why is a new home inspection, a service costing between $300 and $500 for an average single-family home, so important?

Catching Mistakes Early

Construction is complex. Even with the best builders, oversights and mistakes can occur during the building process. Having a fresh perspective from an independent expert acting solely on your behalf can prevent minor flaws from turning into major (and expensive) issues later on.

A pre-listing inspection can also be beneficial for the seller before putting their house on the market.

Building Codes vs. Quality

Municipal building inspectors often focus on compliance with building codes, ensuring a safe structure. However, code compliance isn't always the same as high-quality work. A New Home Inspection delves deeper, looking for workmanship flaws or installation errors missed in routine checks. 

You can also consider radon testing, septic system testing, air sampling, carbon monoxide testing, water bacteria testing, and mold testing as specialty services that can be included in your inspection.

Peace of Mind

Knowing your new house has been thoroughly vetted provides priceless peace of mind. This peace of mind lets you move into your new place confident that any potential problems have already been identified and addressed.

When Is the Right Time for a New Home Inspection?

Most experts recommend at least two inspections: one before the drywall goes up, allowing for unobstructed views of framing, plumbing, and electrical, and a final inspection after construction is complete. Schedule your inspections in advance to ensure availability.

Pre-Drywall Inspection

The pre-drywall inspection reveals any structural or system installation issues early on, allowing for easier and less costly repairs. Once the drywall is up, these flaws might go unnoticed until they cause bigger problems.

Final Inspection

This is your last chance to catch any issues. Consider bringing your detailed inspection report, along with your observations. Pay close attention to the condition of the flooring, as flooring issues can sometimes arise.

New Home Inspection: An Investment Worth Considering

While no one loves spending more money on top of an already considerable investment, a new home inspection can save you significant headaches and money down the line. Finding problems early is always better than expensive repairs later. 

Investing a few hundred dollars in a professional new home inspection is a small price to pay for the long-term peace of mind and the assurance of a safe, well-built home. This empowers you to move in with confidence, excitement, and a sense of security. 

Constructing a new home? Murray Custom Homes offers comprehensive home construction services, including the inspections needed. Contact us today to book online or call (402) 594-0410 for inquiries.