Home / New construction and 11th-month inspection
New construction and 11th-month warranty inspections
New homes have defects too. As a licensed general contractor, I know where builders and their subcontractors cut corners.
Before you close on a new build
A builder's own inspection and the municipal inspection are not a substitute for an independent one. They don't run a camera down the sewer line, scan the walls with infrared or spend hours in the attic. I do, and I work for you.
A long report on a new house is normal. Expect 30 or more findings, most of them small and easy for the builder to correct before you move in.
I strongly suggest adding a sewer scope. Homes built after 2005 in this area show a pattern of bellies, breaks and disconnected sections from installation.
The 11th-month inspection
Most builders warrant workmanship and materials for one year. Have the home inspected in month eleven, while the builder still has to fix what's found. You already paid for those repairs in the price of the house.
What I commonly find at eleven months
- Safety: gas appliance flue pipes that have come apart in the attic or walls
- Structure: cracks in walls, ceilings and floors, and framing members that have loosened or broken
- Roof and drainage: leaks and loose or damaged gutters
- Electrical: damaged components and faulty fixtures or appliances
Don't leave it to the last week. Book in month ten or eleven so there's time to file the warranty claim.
Common questions
Do new homes really need an inspection?
Yes. New construction has defects, sometimes significant ones. An independent inspection before closing keeps you from inheriting problems the builder may not disclose.
What does a builder's one-year warranty cover?
It varies by builder, but it generally covers workmanship and materials, including plumbing and electrical systems, for the first twelve months. Appliances usually carry their own manufacturer warranties.
When should I schedule the 11th-month inspection?
In the tenth or eleventh month after closing, so you have the report in hand before the warranty expires.
Ready to book your inspection?
Pick a time online in a couple of minutes, or call or text Bob at (575) 763-0001.