New Construction Inspection
Hiring your own Inspector is like having your own Insurance Policy.
Why you should hire your own inspector for a new construction inspections?
You are building a new home and you think that hiring an inspector is a waste of money because;
- One, you are protected by the contractors one year warranty
- Two, it will be inspected and approved by the municipal code enforcer
These are the two wrong answers, in reality neither the developer, contractor, or the code enforcer is acting in your best interest, they’re acting in their own.
The actual fact is you need to act in your own best interest and hire an inspector to insure you are getting what you paid for. The builder would also like you to believe that any problems that arise after closing will be promptly dealt with during the warranty period. Experience has shown us that sometimes they do and sometimes they don’t. Is this a chance you’re willing to take?
The construction of a home is a big project involving many contractors and suppliers. According to our experience, there are common, and potentially serious issues that have been identified during a new construction home inspection such as:
- Structural Defects (Footers, Foundations, Framing and Roofing)
- Mechanical Issues (Malfunctioning Thermostats, Loose Connections and Leaking Ductwork)
- Electrical Issues (Improperly Wired Outlets, Open Grounds and Missing Switch Plates)
- Storm Water Drainage and Grading Issues
- Garage Doors, Entrance Doors, and Windows Misalignment
- Plumbing Issues, Including Reversed Hot and Cold, Improper Piping Materials, and Fittings
The purpose of a New Construction Home Inspection is to identify Safety, Code Violations, Poor Quality Material and Workmanship. As a new property owner, it’s also an opportunity for you to educate yourself about the mechanics of your home.
According to ASHI, New Home phase inspections are code oriented and manufacturer specific to the materials used in the construction of the home. Contractors are overseen by local building officials but they do not inspect the construction work in its entirety. The subcontractors vary with the different disciplines during the installation of your home (kitchen, bathroom, utility rooms, etc.) so you have different sets of people working on the home at any one time.
Site managers aren’t able to oversee everyone at every moment, which could result in various code violations.
You might hesitate because you’re afraid to ruin your relationship with your builder, but a professional and honest builder understands this is a business relationship. So, if you’ve chosen a reputable builder, they will welcome another set of eyes on the project.
What is a BOSS Phase Inspection?
Phase I: Foundation Stage
This includes excavation, footings, foundation walls or slab, waterproofing, backfill and compaction, and underground utilities. Municipal inspections are typically performed on the foundation (prior to pouring) and underground plumbing.
Phase II: Framing Stage
Phase III: Rough Plumbing, Mechanical, Electrical
Phase IIII: Insulation and Drywall Stage
Phase V: Paint, Trim, Finishes Stage
Final Phase: 11-month inspection
Timing has to be right to cover all of these phases. One of our BOSS Certified Inspectors will review all phases of the inspection reports with you.
According to various inspectors, there can be 45 average code violations during the construction phase. Of the 45, approximately five result in citations. Upon receipt of a citation the builder is expected to know not to proceed until resolved, about 5 are client concerns, the additional concerns are issues referring to quality workmanship and quality materials.
Regardless of the amount of experience a contractor has, it is not impossible for someone to make a costly mistake. Typically, that mistake is not detected within the 1st year.
Is It Worth It?
Absolutely! It’s astonishing what we’ve experienced and found in performing these inspections.
Most contractors know when an independent 3rd party is inspecting the home, they will build a better quality house. Boss understands the building codes and we come much experience.
You will be employing the services of expertise inspectors and BOSS Certified Home Inspectors.
It’s better to fix the problem before you move in, than to pay for costly repairs afterwards.
Expert Adviser
