New construction phase inspections

Key takeaways

• New does not mean flawless. Crews work fast and subcontractors overlap.
• A pre-drywall inspection is your only look at what goes inside the walls.
• A final inspection checks finished work before you close.
• Findings go to the builder as a list to correct, while the crew is still on site.
• Ask your contract about inspection access before you need it.

Why inspect a house that is brand new?

Because a new home is built by many hands in a hurry. Framers, plumbers, electricians, roofers and finishers each do their part, and the builder cannot watch every detail all day. Mistakes happen, and some are invisible after the drywall is hung.

With my construction background, I know where corners get cut and where simple errors hide. I have no stake in the sale and no relationship with your builder. I report what I see.

The earlier a defect is found, the cheaper and easier it is to fix. That is the whole argument for phase inspections, and it is why I offer them as a dedicated new construction inspection service.

What is checked at the final inspection?

The final inspection happens before closing, when the house looks done. This is a full visual inspection of the finished home, much like a resale inspection, with a focus on workmanship and whether everything works as it should.

• Roof, siding, trim, grading and drainage away from the foundation.
• Operation of the heating and cooling systems.
• Plumbing fixtures, water heater and drain performance.
• Electrical panel, outlets, switches and safety devices.
• Windows, doors, stairs, railings, flooring and finishes.
• Attic insulation and ventilation.

I photograph each finding so you can hand the report to your builder with no guesswork. A well-run builder will work through the list and confirm corrections before closing.

How do I use the findings with my builder?

Send the report to your builder or their representative in writing. Ask for corrections to be scheduled and completed before closing, and request a short re-check of the important items.

Keep it professional. Most builders want to deliver a good house, and a specific list of photographed items is easier to act on than a general complaint. If something is disputed, the report gives you documentation to rely on.

If a serious defect turns up later and leads to a disagreement, I also provide expert witness and forensic consulting. I hope you never need it, but the same documentation habits apply.

Should I test for radon in a new house?

Yes. Radon comes from the soil under the home, not from its age, and tighter construction can make it harder for gas to escape. I can add continuous radon monitoring to your final inspection. Read more in my radon guide.