Why Should I Have My New House Inspected?

You may be wondering what could be problematic within your newly built home? Why should you hire a home inspector for a brand new home that nobody has ever lived in before? While there are many great building companies out there, mistakes may still happen. This could be the result of miscommunication between contractors, negligence, or improper training.

Dead ended vent pipe in the attic.

We recommend having a home inspection performed promptly after construction has completed on your new home. This will allow you to bring up any defects that are found to the builders or contractors for possible resolution. If your developer refuses to correct major issues than you may want to consider taking further legal action.

Facade Leaks, Window Leaks, Flooring Issues, and Ventilation/Exhaust Issues are among the most common problems found within newly constructed houses.

Recently Peninsula Housing Service's own Licensed Home Inspector found this vent pipe had been left open in the attic. The contractors for this new house had forgotten to extend the pipe up through the roof of the home. This would have caused all of the septic gases to vent into the attic which would have resulted in some very stinky problems for the new homeowners. After completion of the home inspection report the developers did promptly correct this issue for the new homeowners.

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No GFCI on outside receptacle.

Another common mistake found within newly constructed homes can include improper receptacles placed near water sources or outside. It is recommended that GFCI receptacles be placed near all sinks, bathtubs, and outside outlets. GFCI receptacles are designed to trip when moisture comes into contact with the outlet to prevent electrical shocks.

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No extension on relief valve.

Failure to attach extensions to the relief valve on water heaters is also a common mistake found within newly constructed houses. The Relief Valve (or TPR Valve) is placed near the top side of the unit. When properly working, this valve is set to open if either the temperature reaches 210°F or if the pressure reaches 150 psi. This is a safety mechanism to avoid the water heater from exploding during a system failure. This valve should have an extension that reaches to just above the floor, preventing discharged water from splashing.

​Each state's laws differ for the regulations and licensing for Home Inspectors. In Virginia, Licensed Home Inspectors must complete additional training to become certified  to inspect New Residential Structures. Feel free to check InterNACHI for a list of home inspection requirements by state to ensure that your home inspector is properly qualified.

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