New Construction: What to Check
Even new homes have defects from fast schedules and many trades. Buyers should arrange an independent inspection before closing and again near the end of the one-year builder warranty. Common new-build issues include grading and drainage problems, missed roof flashing, unbalanced HVAC, air-sealing gaps and settling cracks — all best caught while the builder is still responsible.
New does not mean flawless
It is a common assumption that a brand-new home needs no inspection. In reality, new homes are built fast, by many trades, often under weather pressure — and the builder's own walkthrough is not an independent review. An inspector working for you, not the builder, catches the defects that fast construction leaves behind. See our new construction inspection for the full picture.
Two inspection points
- Before closing. A full inspection before you take ownership, so unfinished or defective work is documented while you still have leverage.
- At month eleven. An 11-month warranty inspection near the end of the builder's one-year warranty, catching issues that surface after a season of use — in time to file warranty claims.
What commonly turns up in new builds
- Grading and drainage that directs water toward the foundation, especially before the soil settles.
- Missed roof flashing — kick-out and step flashing are frequently overlooked.
- Unbalanced or undersized HVAC that only shows under a full heating or cooling season.
- Air-sealing and insulation gaps that can drive attic condensation the first Minnesota winter.
- Settling cracks in drywall and concrete, and foundation curing cracks beyond the normal.
- Finish and operation issues — doors, windows, caulking and trim.
Why independence matters
Municipal inspections confirm code compliance at milestones; they are not a comprehensive review of workmanship and finish quality. An inspection that serves you documents the defects clearly so the builder corrects them under warranty — not you, out of pocket, after it expires.
Frequently asked questions
Why inspect a brand-new home?
Fast schedules and many trades mean defects are common even in quality new construction, and the builder's walkthrough is not an independent review.
When should I inspect new construction?
Before closing, and again near month eleven of the builder's one-year warranty, so issues that surface after a season of use can still be claimed.
What defects are common in new builds?
Grading and drainage problems, missed roof flashing, unbalanced HVAC, air-sealing gaps, settling cracks, and finish and operation issues.
Isn't a city inspection enough?
No. Municipal inspections confirm code compliance at milestones, not overall workmanship and finish quality. An independent inspection serves you, the buyer.
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