%20(4).png)
⭐ 4.9 Stars on Google
540+ Reviews
10+ Years Experience
RHI, CAHPI, CNRPP & WETT Certified
Why Inspect a Brand New Home?
It seems counterintuitive. Why would a brand new home need an inspection? The answer is simple: builders are human, schedules are tight, and subcontractors make mistakes. Municipal inspections verify code compliance, but they don't check for quality workmanship or assess every detail.
I've inspected hundreds of new builds across Southern New Brunswick. Even in well-constructed homes, I routinely document issues that warrant attention. These are far easier to address while the builder is still involved than after your warranty period begins.
❌ The "It's New, It's Fine" Assumption
Municipal inspectors verify minimum code compliance at specific stages. They're not assessing quality, completeness, or workmanship. They also can't identify issues that develop after their inspection, like settlement cracks or HVAC performance problems that only appear when systems are actually in use.
Common Issues in New Construction
These are real issues I regularly document in brand new homes:
Grading and Drainage
Improper lot grading that directs water toward the foundation instead of away from it. This can lead to basement moisture problems over time.
HVAC Concerns
Disconnected ductwork, improperly sealed connections, or systems that aren't balanced. These can cause inconsistent temperatures throughout the house.
Electrical Oversights
Missing GFCI protection, open junction boxes, improper panel wiring, or circuits that don't match the breaker capacity.
Insulation Gaps
Gaps in insulation, especially in rim joists, attic hatches, and around penetrations. Thermal imaging can help identify temperature differences that may indicate these concerns.
Plumbing Defects
Slow drains, improper venting, missing shut off valves, or fixtures that weren't properly connected.
Exterior and Flashing
Improperly installed flashing, missing caulking, or siding gaps that may allow water intrusion over time.
When to Inspect New Construction
Pre-Drywall Inspection
Before drywall goes up
Review the framing, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC while these components are still accessible and visible. Once the drywall is installed, these systems are no longer available for visual assessment.
Final Walkthrough Inspection
Before closing or taking possession
The most common timing. I inspect the completed home, documenting items the builder may need to address before you take possession and your warranty period begins.
Timing Matters for Warranty Claims
Most builder warranties have specific timelines for reporting defects. Once you take possession, the clock starts. An inspection before closing, or shortly after, helps document the home's condition while the builder is still involved. Issues identified later may fall outside warranty coverage.
90%+
of new homes I inspect have reportable items
15+
average items documented per inspection
10+
years inspecting new construction in Southern NB
Common Questions
Will the builder be offended if I get an inspection?
Quality builders typically welcome third party inspections. It gives everyone an opportunity to identify and address items before possession. If a builder strongly discourages an inspection, it’s reasonable to ask why and review your contract terms around access and inspections.
What if the builder won't address what you document?
Most builders address legitimate defects, especially when documented professionally before closing. Your inspection report provides documentation to support your requests. If a builder refuses reasonable repairs, that information is valuable to have before you take ownership.
Doesn't the municipality inspect new construction?
Yes, but municipal inspections verify code minimums at specific stages. They don't assess quality, completeness, or identify issues that develop between inspections. My inspection is more comprehensive and focused on your interests as the buyer.
Should I do both pre-drywall and final inspections?
Ideally, yes. Pre drywall allows assessment of components that will be covered once walls are closed. But if you can only do one, the final walkthrough inspection is typically more critical. It's your last opportunity for an independent review before taking ownership.
What Homebuyers Are Saying
Jillian Beck
Saint John - January 2026
★★★★★
I had a great experience with East Coast Home Inspection. This is my first home and Jonathan was patient in explaining everything to me.
★★★★★
Saint John - January 2026
I would recommend this service to anyone buying a home. Jonathan booked us in quickly, thoroughly explained any issues, and was very friendly and clearly enjoys his job.
Mercy Obienu
★★★★★
Saint John - January 2026
Thanks for the detailed report, it gave us an insight and help with reduction of our purchased price.