There are many advantages to having a home newly constructed instead of purchasing an older home. New homes are built to be more energy efficient and come with all new appliances and systems. A new home won’t have the wear and tear of a previously owned home. Even with all these advantages, new construction isn’t always perfect. When the builder offers a year-long warranty, it is important to order an 11th-month inspection from a professional home inspector.
1. Catch Defects With an 11th-Month Inspection Before the Warranty Expires
A home is built by multiple subcontractors, and even though there is a general contractor overseeing it all, human error or faulty materials are possible. Builders are aware that new construction may have issues, so they often offer a builder’s warranty. Some flaws won’t be noticed during the first year of living in the home unless you hire an experienced and trained home inspector. This is one reason why you should order an 11th-month inspection on new construction.
2. Have Time to File Warranty Claims
If defects related to the original construction are discovered during the 11th-month inspection, they may be covered by the builder’s warranty. Schedule the 11th-month inspection at the beginning of the last month of your warranty coverage so you will have time to file warranty claims. If you wait until a few days before the warranty expiration date, you will be rushing to submit the claim in time.
3. An 11th-Month Inspection Can Prevent Surprises Later
If you assume that your new construction home is flawless just because you haven’t noticed anything wrong, you might be setting yourself up for unpleasant surprises later. Defects with a system or the structure might not show until they malfunction or require serious repairs. By this time, the warranty is long-expired and making the repairs is not the builder’s responsibility. You will have to pay for it out-of-pocket, even if it was a mistake from the original construction.
Honor and Integrity Home Inspections provides 11th-month inspections and other home inspection services to Greater Denver. Contact us to schedule an appointment.