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550+ Reviews
10+ Years Experience
RHI, CAHPI, CNRPP & WETT Certified
Why Inspect a Brand New Home?
It sounds counterintuitive․ Who gets a new home inspected? But you should․ Because builders are human, schedules are tight, and subcontractors make mistakes․ Municipal inspections are mainly for code compliance, but inspectors do not check for quality workmanship or examine every detail․
I've been in hundreds of new builds in Southern New Brunswick․ Even when a house is built well, I see things that need to be addressed․ These are far easier to address in conjunction with the builder than if they arise during your warranty period․
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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.
The "It's New, It's Fine" Assumption
Common Issues Founfin 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.
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.
HVAC Concerns
Disconnected ductwork, improperly sealed connections, or systems that aren't balanced. These can cause inconsistent temperatures throughout the house.
Plumbing Defects
Slow drains, improper venting, missing shut off valves, or fixtures that weren't properly connected.
Electrical Oversights
Missing GFCI protection, open junction boxes, improper panel wiring, or circuits that don't match the breaker capacity.
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.
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.
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.
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.