Common Issues Found in New Construction
Many buyers assume that a brand-new house is perfect. However, even new homes can have significant issues that only a professional eye can spot. Specifically, here are several common problems that often appear in new builds:
1. Construction and Material Defects
First of all, new homes can suffer from construction defects such as improper framing or the use of substandard materials. Furthermore, some building materials—like roofing or siding—may be defective from the manufacturer or simply installed incorrectly, leading to early failure.
2. Failure to Meet Building Standards
Building codes and standards are constantly evolving. Consequently, it is possible for a new home to have violations that were missed during the municipal building process. These issues may not be obvious to a buyer, but they are easily discovered during a professional inspection.
3. Incomplete or Poorly Installed Work
In addition, builders sometimes leave work unfinished, such as landscaping or minor appliance installations, before the buyer takes possession. More importantly, critical systems like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical wiring are frequently installed in a hurry, leading to improper connections that can cause long-term damage.
4. Poor Grading and Drainage
Another common concern involves the exterior of the property. If the ground isn’t graded correctly or the drainage systems are inadequate, it can lead to water pooling around the foundation. In the long run, this can result in major water damage and structural instability.
The Truth About Radon in New Homes
One of the biggest misconceptions is that “new” means “safe” from Radon gas. Many buyers see a pipe in the basement labeled “Radon” and assume they are protected. In reality, this is far from the truth.
Radon gas rises from the ground, and a freshly dug building site has disturbed that earth, often making the gas more likely to enter the home. Therefore, you must test the levels in your new home. Keep in mind that most builders are responsible for fixing high radon levels at no cost to you—but only if you catch the issue early!
Why You Need a “Punch List”
Ultimately, whether a home is new or old, a professional inspection is a vital safety net. A Certified Master Inspector can identify these hidden flaws and provide you with a comprehensive “punch list” to give to your builder before you finalize the sale.
1-year Warranty Almost Up? Get your 11th Month Inspection Now
An 11th month warranty inspection is a type of home inspection that is conducted near the end of the first year of homeownership. This inspection is designed to identify any issues or defects in the home that may be covered by the builder’s warranty.
Here are some reasons why getting an 11th month warranty inspection can be beneficial:
Identify issues before the warranty expires: The builder’s warranty typically covers defects and issues that arise within the first year of homeownership. By getting an 11th month warranty inspection, you can identify any issues that need to be addressed before the warranty expires, ensuring that you can take advantage of the coverage provided by the warranty.
Ensure your home is safe and functional: A warranty inspection can help identify any safety hazards or issues that could impact the functionality of your home. This can include issues with the plumbing, electrical system, or structural components of the home.
Peace of mind: Knowing that your home is in good condition and that any issues are covered by the warranty can provide peace of mind for new homeowners.
Negotiating power: If the inspection reveals issues that need to be addressed, you can use this information to negotiate with the builder to make necessary repairs or upgrades.
Overall, an 11th month warranty inspection can help ensure that your home is safe, functional, and covered by the builder’s warranty. It’s recommended that homeowners schedule this type of inspection to take advantage of the coverage provided by the warranty and to identify any issues before the warranty expires.