Are you asking
yourself, should
I have an inspection on my newly built home? Hasn’t it
already been inspected? The answer is yes,
you should.
No one can build
something as
large and complex as a house without committing a few mistakes at
various stages of the process. After years of inspecting, I have seen
that all new homes have their defects of one kind or another,
regardless of the quality of construction or the reputation of the
builder.
Many homebuyers
feel that they
do not need a professional home inspector because local building
inspectors inspect new homes. A municipal inspection is not enough; the
purpose, scope, time allowed and procedures are not the same for
municipal inspections as they are for professional home
inspections.
Think of it this way, after the holidays there are lines at the return
counter to replace defective products. When applied to new homes,
thinking that new equals perfect can lead to very costly mistakes.
Most municipal
inspectors will
visit 20 or more homes in one day. That leaves them with less than
½ an hour per site. They rarely check crawl spaces or
attics. Many of these inspections are performed before the power and
other utilities are turned on. They do not test outlets, appliances or
fixtures. They do not test the HVAC systems or water heaters.
They can cite a
builder for
improper structural framing or for non-complying drain connections, but
a poorly fitted door, improper installation of components,
unprofessional installation of wiring, an uneven tile countertop and
shoddy finish work are not on their list of concerns.
Typical list of new construction defects:
- Leaking plumbing supply and waste lines
- Missing GFCI outlets in required locations
- Non-functional HVAC systems
- Windows broken or not operating properly
- Cut or damaged trusses
- Drains clogged with construction debris
- Leaking condensation from furnace or air
handler
- Reversed connections at water heater
- Missing insulation in attic
- Water damage in the attic and basement
A professional inspection
of your new home is imperative.
You will
receive an unbiased inspection report,
with a list of defects and
recommended repairs. This will allow for repairs to be made to your
satisfaction, prior to closing.
Some builders impose restrictions on
owners having an independent
inspection prior to closing. Make sure you check your
contract. If it is not allowed, you should schedule your inspection as
soon as possible after closing. This will allow you to have any
defects discovered during the inspection repaired prior to the
end of your warranty period.
Let me help you
avoid the
unexpected by providing a complete and thorough inspection and report,
complete
with photographs.
Our 500 Point Inspection Includes:
- Exterior: Foundation,
Siding, Patios,
Driveway, Sidewalks,
Garage, Porches & Decks
- Roofing: Shingles,
Gutters, Down
Spouts, Flashing, Roof
Vents, Chimneys and Flues
- Attic: Insulation,
Ventilation,
Interior Framing
- Electrical: Service
Capacity, Service
Panels, Interior
Wiring, Switches & Outlets
- Heating: Condition and
Age,
Distribution Pipes &
Ducts, Radiators, Thermostats
- Cooling: Condition and
Age, Compressor
& Condenser
Coils & Filters
- Plumbing: Supply Lines,
Interior
Piping, Pressure, Drains,
Fixtures, Water Heater
- Basement: Foundation
Walls, Joists,
Posts, Beams and
Flooring
- Interior: Walls, Floors,
Ceilings,
Stairs, Bathrooms
- Kitchen: Appliances,
Cabinets, Exhaust
Fan, Floor Covering
My only interest in the home buying process, is the best
interest of my clients. Do not forgo the benefits of a comprehensive
home
inspection performed by an unbiasedthird
party.
Call
now to
book your inspection
410.746.6274
We have
years of experience and a reputation for thoroughness.
Only home inspections performed by licensed inspectors are valid under
a real estate contract.
American Society of Home Inspectors
(ASHI) #
243786
MD License # 29689
All content copyright ©
2016, ALP
Inspections
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