New Construction Defects
Is a home inspection necessary when buying a new home? Absolutely. Even brand new homes have defects that need to be corrected. Mistakes happen, subcontractors can work too quickly, and things can be overlooked. Typically, a builder will correct any issues with a new home, but the defects must first be identified and brought to their attention. It is important to find an inspector that is knowledgable in modern building standards and installation requirements.
*Each one of the photos below is a defect found in a new construction inspection.
Exterior Defects
Typical issues with the exterior include missing and damaged siding, incomplete caulking, inadequate clearances from siding to grade, incomplete paint and damaged windows and doors.
Roofing Defects
Frequently noted roofing defects include damaged roofing, missing flashing, exposed fasteners, debris in gutters and construction debris on the roof.
Grounds Defects
Common issues with the grounds include improper grading, missing vent wells at foundation vents, soil in contact with siding and trim, damaged concrete driveways and walkways, missing and interior grade fasteners in deck joist hangers, missing handrails, missing fasteners in handrails, and blocked exterior drains.
Electrical Defects
Electrical defects are not as common as issues with other systems, but they include sloppy panel wiring, dead receptacles, missing weatherproof covers at the exterior and poorly supported electrical cable.
Plumbing Defects
Plumbing defects, especially leaks, are high on the priority list when it comes to new homes. It is not unusual to find leaking piping, drains and hose bibs. Other common issues include poorly supported piping, blocked drains, excessively high water pressure and defects with grout in showers.
HVAC DEFECTS
Typical HVAC defects include dirty furnaces, issues with venting, dirty filters, disconnected ducts and damaged insulation on refrigerant lines.
Attic & Crawlspace Defects
Some frequently noted attic and crawlspace defects are damaged trusses, standing water in the crawlspace, defects in the crawlspace vapor barrier, sloppy framing, and construction debris on the crawlspace floor.
interior defects
Interior defects are often cosmetic but they’re also very common and sometimes plentiful. Common issues include incomplete cabinetry installation and damaged cabinets, missing trim, poor flooring installation, damaged walls and floors, cracking and incomplete grout in the showers, and defects in the garage fire separation.
Insulation & Ventilation Defects
Common issues with insulation and ventilation include insufficient ventilation leading to moisture and mold in the crawlspace, falling and missing insulation, damaged foundation vent screens and disconnected exhaust fan ducts.