1-Year Builders Warranty

A Warranty Inspection, sometimes called a 1-Year Builder Warranty Inspection, should be carried out before the first anniversary of owning your new home, when the builder is still liable for most defects. Builders often do not remind you about the upcoming expiration of your warranty, so it’s wise to keep this date in mind.

We provide this inspection service for those in homes less than a year old. Even with many elements now hidden from view, a professional can still spot issues.

Our insight suggests that significant construction errors might remain undetected for 3-5 years if not addressed early. At that point, repairs can be expensive, and the builder’s responsibility has likely ended.

A 1-Year Warranty Inspection for a new home typically refers to an inspection conducted just before the end of the first year after the home’s construction or sale. Here’s what you need to know:

Purpose

The inspection serves to identify any defects or issues in the home that might have developed within the first year under the builder’s warranty. It’s an opportunity to ensure that the home has been built correctly and to address any problems before the warranty expires.

Coverage

Structural Elements: Checking for cracks, settling issues, or any structural concerns.

Plumbing: Checking for leaks, proper drainage, and fixture operation.

Roofing: Looking for leaks, loose shingles, or improper flashing.

Electrical: Testing outlets, switches, and ensuring compliance with codes.

HVAC: Ensuring heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are functioning correctly.

Interior Finishes: Examining paint, drywall, trim, and flooring for defects.

Appliances: Basic operation check to ensure they work as expected.

Exterior: Assessing siding, windows, doors for functionality and weatherproofing.

Benefits

Catch Issues: It catches any issues that might not have been apparent at the time of purchase or those that developed over the year.

Builder Responsibility: Any problems found can often be rectified by the builder at no cost, as they are still under warranty.

Documentation: Provides detailed documentation, which can be crucial if disputes arise regarding what should be covered by the warranty.

Preventative Maintenance: Can highlight areas that might need attention to prevent future costly repairs.

When to Schedule

Homeowners typically schedule this inspection around the 11th month after moving in, allowing time before the warranty’s 12th-month expiration for repairs.

Professional Inspection

It’s advisable to hire a professional, independent home inspector rather than relying solely on the builder’s inspection. An independent inspector can provide an unbiased assessment.

Cost vs. Value

While there’s a cost associated with hiring an inspector, the potential savings from having warranty-covered repairs can be substantial.

Legal and Warranty Considerations

Understanding what your builder’s warranty covers is crucial. Not all warranties are the same, so knowing the specifics helps in making the most of the inspection.

The Purpose of our "Warranty Inspection"

The purpose of our “Warranty Inspection” is to mitigate the risk of future expensive repairs by thoroughly checking all key systems in your new home. Our service involves:

Detailed Reporting: We document all observable defects in a clear, itemized report, using a color-coded system to highlight issues.

Builder Presentation: You’ll receive a report ready for submission to your builder, facilitating a straightforward process for addressing any found issues.

This "final opportunity" inspection is crucial for ensuring you have the assurance that your home is free from significant defects, giving you the confidence you merit.

This inspection is not mandatory but is highly recommended for new homeowners to ensure their investment remains safeguarded by the builder’s warranty. It’s a proactive step towards maintaining the home’s integrity and value.