06 Apr Why Home Inspections Matter Even for New Builds
If you’re thinking about buying a new construction home, you might assume that a home inspection isn’t necessary—after all, it’s brand new, right? Well, I’m here to tell you that even new builds can have hidden issues, and skipping an inspection could cost you big time. In this blog, I’ll explain why home inspections are just as crucial for new builds as they are for resale homes.
The Importance of a Home Inspection on a New Build
It might seem strange to think about needing a home inspection for a newly built home. After all, the builder should be doing everything right, right? Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Just because something is new doesn’t mean it’s flawless. In fact, during the construction process, mistakes can be made or corners can be cut—mistakes that you may not notice until after you’ve moved in.
I’ve seen situations where even the smallest oversight could’ve been a costly issue down the line. For instance, I recently worked with clients who purchased a spec home. When we did a walkthrough, I noticed the two required trees in the yard. One tree was planted directly in line with the sewer, a potential disaster waiting to happen. It’s easy to miss these things, especially when a home is brand new. That’s where an inspection can save you.
What You’re Missing Without an Inspection
When you buy a new build, it’s easy to assume that everything is good to go. But as I’ve learned over the years, it’s always a good idea to have an inspector double-check things—especially before you close on the property. I’ve personally been involved in situations where a missing truss in the attic was discovered only after several rounds of inspections. This could’ve been a dealbreaker if it had been left unnoticed.
Another issue I’ve seen more than once is faulty electrical work. In one case, a GFCI outlet wasn’t working, and my inspector noticed that there was a serious issue with the wiring and breakers in the electrical box. When I pushed the builder, they hired an electrician, and it was discovered that the breakers were completely incorrect. That could’ve led to much bigger problems down the road. Without the home inspection, my buyers would’ve never known.
Why You Should Hire an Inspector During the Build
Even though the builder might be checking the work during the build, an independent inspector brings a fresh set of eyes to the project. They’re not emotionally attached to the project like the builder’s team, and they’re focused on identifying problems before they become major issues. Sure, the builder may have a foreman overseeing things, but they can’t possibly catch every little detail. Having an inspector lay eyes on it during the building process means those small issues are caught early and fixed right away.
In my experience, it’s always better to catch any problems early in the process before you sign the dotted line and move in. Once you’re in the house, dealing with issues can be a nightmare, especially with a new build. The builder might not be as responsive or cooperative once they’ve moved on to their next project.
What a Home Inspection Can Catch on a New Build
So, what can a home inspection catch that you might not notice? Here are just a few things an inspector can spot:
- Structural Issues – Missing or poorly installed trusses, cracks in the foundation, and other structural problems that could lead to serious long-term issues.
- Electrical Problems – Like the one I mentioned earlier, a home inspection can identify faulty wiring, incorrect breaker placement, or outlets that aren’t wired correctly.
- Plumbing Issues – Inspectors can spot plumbing problems, such as improper connections, leaks, or incorrect placement of pipes.
- HVAC Problems – Inspectors can check whether your HVAC system is properly installed, and if it’s functioning correctly.
Bottom Line: Don’t Skip the Inspection
Just because a home is newly built doesn’t mean it’s free of issues. A thorough inspection during construction is your best defense against costly repairs down the road. The small investment in an inspection can save you thousands in repairs, headaches, and possible deal-breaking issues.
So, before you sign the contract and finalize the purchase of a new build, be sure to get that home inspected. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind, and it might even save you from major problems down the line.
If you’re considering buying a new build or a resale home in the Northwest Valley, I’m here to guide you through the process. Call or text me anytime to discuss your options, and I’ll help you make sure your new home is in tip-top shape before you move in!
Call me today at (602) 329-7782 for expert advice on home inspections, new builds, or any other real estate needs.