Why Even New Homes Need a Home Inspection

When most people think of a home inspection, they picture an older house with worn-out systems, leaky basements, or outdated wiring. But the truth is even brand-new homes need a professional inspection before you move in.

We’ve inspected countless newly built homes, and we’ve seen firsthand that new doesn’t always mean problem-free.

Construction Isn’t Always Perfect

A new home passes multiple phases of construction, often involving dozens of subcontractors. While builders work hard to deliver a quality product, mistakes can and do happen.

• Electrical connections can be loose.
• Plumbing may not be properly sealed.
• Insulation might be missing in key areas.
• Roof flashing may be installed incorrectly.
• Damages to the property.

Sometimes it’s not always obvious to the naked eye but a trained inspector can catch them before they become major issues.

Code Inspections Aren’t the Same as Home Inspections

Many buyers assume the municipal code inspection is enough. The problem? Code inspections check for minimum compliance, not overall quality or long-term safety.

A home inspector takes a broader look at the entire house, focusing on function, safety, and potential problems that could affect your investment.

Small Fixes Now Save Big Money Later

Catching issues early means they can be corrected while the builder is still responsible often at no cost to you. A missed problem, like improper grading around the home, might not show up until the first heavy rain, and by then you could be dealing with costly water damage.

Don’t Forget Your 11-Month Warranty Inspection

Most new homes come with a one-year builder’s warranty, covering defects in materials or workmanship. Scheduling an inspection around the 11-month mark ensures that any hidden problems like settling cracks, leaks, or system malfunctions are discovered and documented while the warranty is still active. This way, you can request repairs before you’re responsible for the cost.

Peace of Mind for New Homeowners

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. Even with new construction, a professional home inspection provides:

✔ Confidence that your home is safe and sound.
✔ A detailed report of any issues — big or small.
✔ The reassurance that nothing important was overlooked.

Final Thoughts

A new home should bring excitement. Not unexpected headaches. Having a professional inspection done before closing and again before your warranty expires ensures your dream home starts off on the right foot.

At Northwoods Home Inspection Group, we’re here to give you peace of mind, whether your home is 100 years old or brand new.