A new home is an exciting prospect for any homeowner, but an untouched house can be especially wonderful. However, even newly constructed homes require a professional to take a look at them. To get the best understanding and ensure the safety of the building, you should consider a phase inspection.
With a phase inspection, scheduling as soon as possible for a new construction inspection is best. This is important because it allows the inspector to check earlier parts of the construction before seeing the final build and catch underlying issues easily.
New construction requires an inspection just like any other type of home.
What is a New Construction Phase Inspection?
A New Construction Inspection can be conducted using a phase model, where inspections are carried out at various points along the construction of the building. Although the points of inspection may vary, it typically involves three points where the inspector will check in on the build before having construction move forward.
The first is usually prior to pouring the concrete foundation if you are involved in the project early enough to hire an inspector at this time. The second is prior to installing the interior drywall and is one of the points always recommended for a new construction inspection. The third is a final walkthrough before the construction is officially complete to give the contractor time to fix any issues before the final moment. Together, these are the basic points of a Phase Inspection. To get the best results, you should hire an inspector early enough to complete as many of these points of inspection as possible.
What Does A New Construction Inspection Look At
During the first phase of the inspection, the Pre-Pour Inspection, inspectors will check that the rods for the foundation of the house have been correctly placed and installed before the pouring of the concrete. They will ensure that they are evenly spaced and none are bent or otherwise damaged.
The second phase is sometimes called the Framing Inspection or the Pre-Drywall Inspection and occurs after the timber frame for the house has been constructed and the skeleton, including any systems that run behind the interior walls, has been completed. This inspection will look at the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing installations that run throughout the house, even if they are not yet connected to their respective sinks or lights. It also looks at the exterior of the home that has been completed, such as checking the window flashings that help prevent water, moisture, or wind from entering the home and the roof. An inspector may also examine the HVAC system at this point to ensure that temperature and air quality are regulated in the home.
Final Inspection: This inspection is performed when home is “move-in ready”. Includes easy-to-read details for the following:
- The condition of every major component from the roof to the foundation.
- Major and minor deficiencies.
- Safety concerns.
- Summary of all issues addressed for quick reference.
- Each inspection report includes pictures and is emailed for future use.
Why Do New Homes Need An Inspection?
New homes might be untouched, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have issues. The benefit of a brand-new home is that no one has ever lived in it! It is untouched and perfect. The main drawback is that no one has ever lived in it- you are essentially the guinea pig for seeing how this construction works out. Sellers of a house are usually required to disclose any issues they are aware of with the house but contractors are not aware of any issues and as such cannot disclose them. You will be the one to find out if the roof will get snow buildups, or if the basement floods during storms. A New Construction Inspection can help mitigate some of these issues.
Also, contractors can make mistakes sometimes and city inspectors there to check the structure are often in a hurry. Additionally, they are only required to ensure that the building meets the minimum of standard building codes. An inspector can perform a more in-depth check to make sure everything is as safe as possible.
Common Problems Found During New Home Inspections
Some of the issues found during new home inspections are the same major issues found during regular home inspections. These include:
- Structural issues
- Improper grading
- Faulty wiring
- Plumbing leaks
- Issues with insulation
- Problems with roofing
- Poorly installed HVAC systems
These are issues that can occur even in new houses because they do not need to originate from the wear and tear of a home. The inspector will arrive with a checklist at various points in the inspection to check on the corresponding parts of the house during the phases.
If you’re in Frisco, Texas and interested in an inspection for your new construction, check out Kissee Inspection Services for experienced, licensed inspectors near you. They provide new home inspections and resale inspections, with plenty of add-ons to ensure total safety in your new home.