Are you excited to move in to your newly built home? Of course, who wouldn’t be? After months of planning and construction, the day has finally arrived when you can call it your own. However, before you start unpacking and settling in, have you considered inspecting your new home thoroughly?
In this guide, we will discuss the importance of inspecting your new home after construction and how it can save you from future hassles.
The Basics of Home Inspections After Construction
A home inspection thoroughly examines a property’s structural and mechanical components. It is usually performed by a professional inspector who will visually inspect every nook and cranny of your new home to identify any potential issues. This includes but is not limited to the foundation, roofing, plumbing, electrical systems, and HVAC.
Home inspections are typically carried out before purchasing a home. However, after construction, it is equally important to conduct another inspection to ensure that everything has been built according to the agreed-upon plans and standards.
Why Inspect Your New Home After Construction?
Mistakes can still happen during construction even if you have hired a reputable and experienced builder. These errors may not always be obvious or noticeable at first glance, but they can cause significant problems in the future. Here are some reasons why inspecting your new home after construction is crucial:
- Identifying and addressing any issues early on can save you from costly repairs later. A home inspection can uncover potential problems, such as faulty wiring or plumbing before they escalate into major disasters.
- Construction defects, if left unchecked, can decrease the value of your property. A thorough inspection will help identify any issues that need to be addressed before they affect your home’s worth.
- Ensuring that your new home meets all safety and building codes is essential for your family’s well-being. An inspection after construction can help identify any code violations that need to be rectified immediately.
Key Areas to Inspect in Your New Home
During your post-construction home inspection, make sure to pay special attention to these areas:
- Foundation and structural components: Check for any cracks, uneven surfaces, or signs of water damage.
- Roofing: Inspect for any missing shingles, leaks, or other potential issues that may compromise the integrity of your roof.
- Plumbing and electrical systems: Check for proper installation and functioning of pipes, wires, outlets, and switches.
- HVAC systems: Test the heating, cooling, and ventilation systems to ensure they are in good working condition.
- Interior and exterior finishes: Inspect for any cosmetic defects, such as chipped paint or uneven flooring.
- Air Quality: Test for the presence of radon, a colorless and odorless gas that can cause serious health problems if present in high levels. If you are in Denver, make sure to include a radon test in your home inspection as it is known to be prevalent in this area.
The Importance of Hiring a Professional Home Inspector
While you may be tempted to save some money and conduct the inspection yourself, it is always best to hire a professional home inspector. They have the necessary expertise and experience to thoroughly examine your new home and identify any potential issues that you may overlook. Additionally, hiring an inspector also provides you with a detailed report of their findings, which can come in handy for future reference.
Conclusion
Newly constructed homes may look perfect at first glance, but it is essential to conduct a thorough inspection after construction to ensure everything is as it should be. By taking this simple step, you can save yourself from future hassles and ensure that your dream home remains a safe and comfortable haven for years to come. So before you move in, make sure to inspect your new home and address any issues that may arise. After all, it’s always better to be safe than sorry!
