The Value of Construction Inspections

Buyers of re-sale homes more often than not have their homes inspected by way of a professional inspector. Buyers of new homes, however, often do not take this important step. There are lots of reasons for this:

The buyer is getting a fresh home, and thinks that the inspection is an unnecessary added cost.

The buyer feels that they are protected by the builder's one-year warranty for workmanship, plus extended structural warranty.

In many cases, the home is inspected by city inspectors as a part of the permitting process.

Buyers believe that they are able to depend on the builder's reputation.

The builder is resistant to idea of third party inspections.

Buyers aren't aware a home inspection is a recommended alternative.

The customer plans to "watch" on the construction.

A Business Relationship

The construction of a house is a big project involving many contractors and suppliers. As the buyer and homeowner you're the financer and recipient of the final product. When you are like most people, that is your biggest investment. Understandably, most people want to set up a good rapport making use of their builder. They must rely on the builder through the entire job, and for warranty and service work after completion. They feel that they want the builder's friendship and good will, and do not desire to risk damaging the relationship.

You will need to comprehend this is likely to mind. Don't allow your anxiety concerning the construction process to obscure the point that you have a method of trading with your builder. You're working together under a contract. You'll be able to be cordial and respectful, while maintaining the right to bring up problems and concerns. It is advisable to establish the ground rules for your relationship at the start of the project. At some point, you may need to tell the builder that something is not acceptable to you.

Schedule Inspections

Let the builder know first that you will be obtaining a construction inspection. You might hear (from the builder or others) that this is unnecessary, that city inspections will be done, that this is an unusual step, etc. Stand your ground on the inspection decision. Once you have let the builder understand that you will be getting an inspection, send a contact or written note clarifying when your inspections will undoubtedly be done. Make it clear that you will have to have the utilities connected for the final inspection. Allow enough time following the final inspection for corrections to be made before closing. Consult with your inspector about which inspections he recommends. The three which come to mind are: foundation, pre-sheetrock, and final inspection.

Foundation Inspection

With some complicated foundations, you ought to have an engineer review the construction as it progresses. In other cases, an authorized inspector can do the work. Usually, city inspectors execute a layout inspection, making sure the foundation will not overlap building lines. Whether you're in a city, ask your inspector to check this. Require a copy of the "forms survey", if the builder has one. In case a forms survey is not done, carefully measure from the property lines. If there is some doubt about if the structure encroaches over building lines, have a survey done before proceeding. In addition to the layout, the inspector will check the steel content, depth of footings, post tension cables, and other parts of the building blocks.

Pre-Sheetrock Inspection

Most builders invite the homeowner to accomplish a walk through after framing, HVAC and plumbing rough-in, and electrical wiring are complete. This is a good time to look at your outlet locations and window and door placements. Guarantee that any changes in the plans have been picked up and created by the sub contractors.

While you look for layout items, your home inspector can look closely at the construction.  Fall Arrest Systems Bedfordshire  might include: broken plumbing lines, improper flashing, cut or bowed studs, inadequate bracing, beams that over-span their strength, AC ducts that are crushed, etc. These items are easy to correct at this stage, before sheetrock and finish materials are installed.

It isn't realistic to anticipate the construction to check out perfectly. Every builder in every price range could have some what to correct, both from the city and the third party inspector. Let your builder understand that you'll provide him with the report immediately, so that he can address the things prior to the walls are closed up.

Final Inspection

You need to have all utilities on as a way to complete this inspection. Normally, the builder requests a "walk-through" inspection with you once the house is substantially complete. If utilities are on, you could schedule your inspector at this time. You can concentrate on paint and touch up items, while your inspector conducts a far more thorough inspection, checking for leaks, non functional outlets, final grading of the lot, flashing problems, appliance operation, voids in mortar, etc.

The Construction Inspection

At some point you'll sell you home, as well as your buyer will probably have your home inspected. Some of the items the inspector catches now might seem minor, but they will come up later in your buyer's home inspection if they are not corrected. It really is in your very best interest to have everything nailed down now. If there are items that cannot be fixed before closing, and you also cannot delay closing, ask the builder to sign a written set of what to be repaired or completed.

Creating a new home is definitely an exciting and rewarding experience. A fresh home can deliver the right floor plan and finishes for you. This is a complicated project and huge investment. The support, advice and information that you'll gain from a alternative party inspection is invaluable. Do not leave out this important step in the building process. It is well worth the investment.