Simple answer: Yes. Even new homes are defective, ranging from incorrect equipment to roof damage to grading issues.
Since the pandemic, sales of new construction single-family homes have been rising, and builders are desperately keeping up with the rising demand for housing that began in 2020. Architectural incentives, mortgage buying and cash on closure costs have also become more attractive to new builds, especially as the gap between the selling price gaps between new construction and older homes is closed.
Many buyers believe investing in new construction means they are moving to a zero-problem home. However, “new” does not necessarily mean “perfect.” Many new building homeowners may discover whether they choose to opt for a new construction home inspection, whether they are buying a home in Washington, DC, or Dallas, Texas.
Do new construction require a house inspection?
Yes, almost always. When you buy a second-hand home, it is practically only natural that the buyer will be inspected. With new construction, many buyers assume that local government building inspections or builder guarantees will eliminate the need for additional inspections, but that is the builder goal vs buyer expectations.
“Builders are putting much pressure on delivering as many homes as possible to meet their financial obligations with shareholders as quickly as possible,” says Fred Rodriguez, owner and inspector at Damngood inspections in southern Florida. “The goal of a builder is to get your home as fast and efficient as possible. What you’re looking forward to is that what you’re buying is a great quality product.”
When to schedule a home inspection for new construction
If you are undergoing an inspection at a new construction home, there are some important timing points to keep in mind. It depends on whether you build and buy a new construction home or close at a newly completed spec house.
1. From zero
If you are involved during construction, a three-phase inspection is a check of options after moving in when you inspect your home during three important parts of the construction process.
Foundation inspection: After concrete has been poured. Pre-drying inspection: Before the wall is sealed. Final inspection: When the house is nearly finished before closing. 11 Month Warranty Inspection: Before the builder warranty expires (optional).
2. Buy the completed “Spec House”
If your home has already been built or is nearly complete, schedule an inspection before closing. This is an opportunity to request repairs and negotiate with the builder, says Rodriguez. “Builders want to close their homes to get money, but they need to make sure the products the buyers are offering are promised.”
What inspectors are looking for in a new construction home
As long as the house is mostly ready, the inspector will check in other homes for the same things they do.
In a new construction home, inspectors check the home’s items.
Electrical Panel Piping HVAC Appliances for Foundation Exterior Wall Roof Garage, Crawl Space, Attic
“One of the first things to do with a new construction inspection is to inspect the roof,” says Rodriguez. From there, many problems can arise, such as improper installation and maintenance of damage during construction.
Common issues to keep in mind in new construction homes
The pressure to build quickly and the numerous subcontractors working on new builds are often the biggest drivers of construction mistakes. Some of the most common issues Rodriguez discovered during new construction inspections are missing insulation, drainage issues, and small leaks that can turn into expensive repairs if caught early and not fixed.
A 2022 survey revealed the most common issues found during a new construction home inspection.
HVAC system problems Safety problems Finishing problems Drainage drainage problems Structural problems Leakage or flood foundation problems
The same study found that nearly nine people in 10 new homes needed maintenance earlier than expected, with the most frequent issues related to electricity, HVAC, plumbing, flooring, foundations and drywalls.
Conclusion: Do not skip home inspection
New construction homes have many moving parts, tight deadlines and profit margins to consider. Even with new materials and modern construction, errors occur. Professional inspections can be corrected before closing or under warranty, as they can help you grasp the issue early.
That’s why it’s important to hire both the inspector and the real estate agent on your side, Rodriguez says. If you are purchasing a new construction home, Redfin agents will help you find a trusted inspector, guide you through phase inspections and help you protect you and your investments at every stage.
New Construction Home Inspection FAQ
How much does a new construction home inspection cost?
A standard new construction home inspection typically costs between $300 and $500, depending on the size and complexity of the property. A large home or home with a basement, crawl space, or special add-on can cost over $600.
If you choose a 3-phase inspection package (basic, pre-drying, final, and optional 11-month warranty check), many inspectors will charge between $800 and $2,000 in total. Each inspection phase can run between $100 and $500, and some inspectors will offer discounted fees if you book a full package in advance. These are typical estimates and may vary depending on location and provider.
What is the biggest red flag for a home inspection?
The biggest red flags for home inspections are usually structural, including foundation cracks, uneven flooring, sagging roofs, and framing issues. These mean serious problems that are expensive to fix. Other major issues can create both safety risks and ongoing maintenance headaches, such as water intrusion, broken electrical systems, and piping or HVAC failures.
What is the final walk for inspection for new construction?
The final walkthrough at the new construction home, also known as the “blue tape walkthrough,” is the final inspection before closing. The buyer walks the property with the builder to ensure that all work is completed as planned, the systems and appliances work and all finishes meet expectations. Blue Painter tapes are often used to point out defects and unfinished details, also known as “punchlists” of items that builders need to fix before moving.
