
Why Even Newly Built Homes Still Need an Inspection; Lets discuss why newly constructed homes should still undergo a thorough inspection process
Nov 4, 2024
5 min read
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At Hynesight Inspections, We’ve seen many homeowners make the assumption that because their home is newly built, it’s free from defects. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Even newly constructed homes can have hidden issues that aren’t immediately obvious. Whether it’s a minor oversight or a major defect, new homes are not immune to problems. In fact, they often require just as much scrutiny as older properties. In this blog post, I’ll explain why every new home needs an inspection, what’s involved in the process, and how you can get the most value from your new construction deal.

Why New Build & Newly Constructed Homes Still Need Home Inspections?
Many buyers assume that a brand-new home is flawless because it hasn’t been lived in yet. However, new construction homes can have a wide range of issues due to rushed timelines, subcontractor mistakes, or miscommunication between builders and contractors. A professional home inspection ensures that these issues are caught early before they become costly problems.
At Hynesight Inspections, we’ve seen firsthand how even newly constructed homes can have significant oversights. For example, one of our clients in Brantford purchased a brand-new home only to find out during our inspection that the HVAC system was improperly installed. This issue could have led to inefficient heating and cooling, higher energy bills, and potentially costly repairs down the line. Thanks to our thorough inspection process, the problem was addressed before closing, saving the homeowner thousands of dollars.
The Process of New Construction Inspections
New construction inspections are typically conducted in phases to ensure each stage of the build meets quality standards. Here’s how we approach inspections for new homes:
1. Pre-Drywall Inspection (Rough-In Phase)
This inspection occurs before the walls are closed up with drywall and insulation. At this stage, we inspect key components such as framing, electrical wiring, plumbing lines, and HVAC ductwork. The pre-drywall phase is crucial because it allows us to see what’s behind the walls—things that will be hidden once the home is completed.
What We Look For:
Proper installation of electrical wiring (no exposed wires or improper connections).
Correct plumbing installation (ensuring pipes are properly secured and no leaks exist).
Structural integrity (checking for any framing defects or misalignments).
HVAC system installation (ensuring ducts are properly routed and sealed).
Value: This phase is critical because once the drywall goes up, it becomes much harder (and more expensive) to fix any underlying issues. Catching problems at this stage can save you significant time and money later on.
2. Final Inspection (Before Closing)
This inspection occurs when the home is fully built but before you take possession. It’s similar to a traditional home inspection for an existing property but focuses on ensuring that all systems are functioning properly and meet safety standards.
What We Look For:
Roofing integrity (checking for missing shingles or improperly installed flashing).
Exterior elements (ensuring windows and doors are properly sealed against water intrusion).
Electrical systems (testing outlets, switches, and ensuring proper grounding).
Plumbing fixtures (checking for leaks or improper water pressure).
HVAC performance (ensuring heating/cooling systems work efficiently).
Safety features (verifying smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are installed).
Value: This ensures that all systems in your new home are functioning properly before you move in. If any issues are found at this stage, they can be addressed by the builder before closing.
3. 11-Month Warranty Inspection
Most builders offer a one-year warranty on new homes covering major systems like plumbing, electrical, and structural components. An inspection around the 11-month mark allows you to catch any lingering issues while they’re still covered under warranty.
What We Look For:
Settling cracks in drywall or foundation.
Signs of water intrusion around windows or doors.
HVAC system performance over time.
Any wear-and-tear issues that may have developed since moving in.
Value: This is your last chance to get repairs covered by the builder’s warranty without having to pay out-of-pocket for fixes later on.
Common Issues Found in Newly Constructed Homes
Even though these homes are brand new, we often find several common issues during inspections:
1. Plumbing Leaks
Improperly installed pipes or fixtures can lead to leaks behind walls or under floors—issues that may go unnoticed until significant damage has occurred.
Estimated Repair Cost: $500 - $2,000 depending on severity.
2. HVAC Problems
Poorly installed ductwork or undersized systems can lead to inefficient heating and cooling throughout your home—resulting in higher energy bills and discomfort during extreme weather conditions.
Estimated Repair/Replacement Cost: $1,000 - $5,000 depending on system size.
3. Roofing Issues
Missing shingles or improperly installed flashing can cause leaks that lead to water damage inside your home—especially during heavy rainstorms or snowmelt periods.
Estimated Repair Cost: $1,500 - $10,000 depending on damage severity.
4. Electrical Defects
Miswired outlets or overloaded circuits pose serious fire hazards if not addressed promptly—especially if they’re located near flammable materials like insulation or wood framing.
Estimated Repair Cost: $500 - $3,000 depending on scope of work required.
Hidden Costs in New Construction
One of the biggest misconceptions about new construction homes is that everything is covered by warranties—this isn’t always true! While builders do offer warranties for certain elements like structural defects or major systems (plumbing/electrical), there are often limitations/exclusions that homeowners overlook:
Cosmetic Issues
Minor imperfections like paint touch-ups or small cracks may not be covered after a certain period—usually within the first year only!
Appliances
Most appliances come with their own manufacturer warranties but may not be covered under builder warranties unless specified otherwise!It’s important to read your warranty carefully so you understand what IS—and ISN’T—covered! A thorough inspection helps identify which items need immediate attention before your warranty expires!
How to Get Maximum Value Out of Your New Construction Deal
When purchasing a new construction home there are several ways you can maximize your investment:
1. Negotiate with Your Builder
Use your inspection report as leverage during negotiations! If significant issues are found during inspections (e.g., roofing problems/HVAC defects), request builder fix these items BEFORE closing—or negotiate price reduction accordingly!One client saved over $15K off their purchase price after our inspection revealed faulty wiring throughout house!
2. Ask for Upgrades
Builders often offer upgrades at additional cost—but these can sometimes be negotiated into deal if aware other issues need fixing too!
3. Do Your Research on Builders
Not all builders created equal! Research reputation by reading reviews/asking references from previous buyers! Ensure history financial stability/delivering quality work ON TIME!
Secrets for Negotiating with Builders
When negotiating with builders:
Be informed! Having independent inspector review property gives solid evidence when discussing repairs/upgrades with builder!
Ask about subcontractors! Builders often use subcontractors specific tasks (e.g., plumbing/electrical)—ask who they’re using—and research those companies too! You want experienced professionals working YOUR home!
Get everything IN WRITING! Verbal agreements won’t hold up if something goes wrong later—so make sure ALL promises documented writing BEFORE signing anything!
Final Thoughts
Even though new construction homes might look perfect—they’re NOT immune from defects! A professional inspection ensures peace-of-mind by identifying potential problems early—and gives valuable negotiating power when dealing builders!
At Hynesight Inspections—we’re committed to helping homeowners make informed decisions about their properties by providing thorough inspections every stage construction! Reach out today if considering buying newly built home—we’ll help ensure everything you dreamed would be!
Contact the team at Hynesight Inspections for more information about our new construction inspection services.