THE WORTHINESS of Construction Inspections
Buyers of re-sale homes almost always have their homes inspected by way of a professional inspector. Buyers of new homes, however, often do not take this important step. There are numerous reasons for this:
The buyer gets a fresh home, and thinks that the inspection can be an unnecessary added cost.
The buyer feels they are protected by the builder's one-year warranty for workmanship, plus extended structural warranty.
In many cases, the home is inspected by city inspectors as part of the permitting process.
Buyers believe that they can depend on the builder's reputation.
The builder is resistant to idea of third party inspections.
Buyers are not aware a home inspection is a recommended alternative.
The customer plans to "watch" on the construction.
A Business Relationship
The construction of a home is a big project involving many contractors and suppliers. Because the buyer and homeowner you're the financer and recipient of the ultimate product. If you are like most people, this is your biggest investment. Understandably, a lot of people want to set up a good rapport making use of their builder. They must depend on the builder through the entire job, and for warranty and service work after completion. They feel that they want the builder's friendship and good will, , nor desire to risk damaging the relationship.
You need to comprehend this in your own mind. Don't allow your anxiety concerning the construction process to obscure the truth that you have a business relationship with your builder. You are working together under a contract. You'll be able to be cordial and respectful, while maintaining the right to bring up problems and concerns. It is best to establish the ground rules for the relationship at the beginning of the project. At some time, you may need to tell the builder that something is not acceptable to you.
Schedule Inspections
Let the builder know at the outset you will be getting a construction inspection. You might hear (from the builder or others) that this is unnecessary, that city inspections will be done, that this can be an unusual step, etc. Stand your ground on the inspection decision. Once you have let the builder know that you'll be getting an inspection, send an email or written note clarifying when your inspections will undoubtedly be done. Inform you that you will have to have the utilities connected for your final inspection. Allow plenty of time following the final inspection for corrections to be made before closing. Consult with your inspector about which inspections he recommends. The three which come to mind are: foundation, pre-sheetrock, and final inspection.
Foundation Inspection
With some complicated foundations, you should have an engineer review the construction since it progresses. In other cases, an authorized inspector can do the work. Usually, city inspectors do a layout inspection, making certain the foundation will not overlap building lines. Whether or not you are in a city, ask your inspector to double check this. Require a copy of the "forms survey", if the builder has one. In case a forms survey is not done, carefully measure from the house lines. If there is some doubt about whether the structure encroaches over building lines, have a survey done before proceeding. In addition to the layout, the inspector will check the steel content, depth of footings, post tension cables, along with other parts of the building blocks.
Pre-Sheetrock Inspection
Most builders invite the homeowner to do a walk through after framing, HVAC and plumbing rough-in, and electrical wiring are complete. This can be a good time to look at your outlet locations and window and door placements. Make certain that any changes in the plans have already been picked up and made by the sub contractors.
While you look for layout items, your home inspector can look closely at the construction. His report might include: broken plumbing lines, improper flashing, cut or bowed studs, inadequate bracing, beams that over-span their strength, AC ducts which are crushed, etc. These items are an easy task to correct at this point, before sheetrock and finish materials are installed.
Mansafe Systems Bedfordshire isn't realistic to anticipate the construction to check out perfectly. Every builder atlanta divorce attorneys price range will have some items to correct, both from the city and the 3rd party inspector. Let your builder understand that you will provide him with the report immediately, in order that he can address the things prior to the walls are closed up.
Final Inspection
You need to have all utilities on as a way to complete this inspection. Normally, the builder requests a "walk-through" inspection with you once the house is substantially complete. If utilities are on, you could schedule your inspector at this time. You can concentrate on paint and touch up items, while your inspector conducts a far more thorough inspection, checking for leaks, non functional outlets, final grading of the lot, flashing problems, appliance operation, voids in mortar, etc.
The Construction Inspection
At some point you will sell you home, and your buyer will probably have your house inspected. A number of the items the inspector catches now may seem minor, but they will come up later in your buyer's home inspection if they're not corrected. It is in your best interest to possess everything nailed down now. If there are items that cannot be fixed before closing, and you also cannot delay closing, ask the builder to sign a written set of items to be repaired or completed.
Creating a new home is definitely an exciting and rewarding experience. A fresh home can deliver the right floor plan and finishes for you. This can be a complicated project and huge investment. The support, advice and information that you will gain from a third party inspection is invaluable. Usually do not leave out this important step in the building process. It is really worth the investment.