Market Perspectives Blog Post
Why You Should Still Get an Inspection on a New Build — Even with a Builder Warranty
New doesn’t mean flawless—and a warranty won’t always save you.
Buying a brand-new home feels like it should come with peace of mind. It’s fresh—no previous owners, up-to-date systems, modern finishes, and built to today’s code. Plus, it usually comes with a builder warranty. So why bother with a home inspection?
Here’s the hard truth: new construction homes are not immune to mistakes. In fact, many have defects that go unnoticed until well after closing. These aren’t minor cosmetic blemishes—they’re foundational, mechanical, and structural issues that can cost you dearly down the road.
The Hidden Flaws in New Construction
Sounds comprehensive, but here’s the reality:
1) Many issues are dismissed as “cosmetic” and excluded from coverage unless noted before closing
2) You have to report the issue—and prove it wasn’t caused by wear and tear or improper use
3) Warranty claims often take weeks or months to resolve
4) Repairs are typically done by warranty crews—not the original subcontractors—and may be rushed or poorly coordinated
The result? If you don’t catch the problem early, you’re stuck with it—or left to fight an uphill battle.
Three Critical Inspections You Should Schedule
To protect your investment, you need three key inspections—even on a brand-new home:
1) Pre-Drywall Inspection
Takes place before the walls are sealed up. This is your only chance to check framing, wiring, plumbing, ductwork, and insulation before it’s hidden.
2) Final Inspection (Before Closing)
Ensures all systems function properly, finishes are complete, and no visible issues were overlooked or rushed near the end of construction.
3) 11-Month Warranty Inspection
Done right before the 1-year warranty ends, this inspection gives you one last opportunity to catch defects that developed after move-in—and have them addressed on the builder’s dime.
The Bottom Line
A builder warranty is not a substitute for a professional inspection.
It’s a backup plan, not a preventative tool. The smartest strategy is to catch issues before closing, when the builder is most responsive, and follow up with an 11-month inspection to maximize your warranty benefits.
At Adam Timothy Group, we’ve helped countless clients navigate new construction purchases, connect with the right inspectors, and negotiate builder repairs before problems become permanent. Buying a new home should feel exciting—not stressful. We’re here to help you make sure it stays that way.
Sources:
Texas Association of Real Estate Inspectors, 2021 Defect Report
National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI), Construction Trends Summary
American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), 2020 Residential Inspection Findings
Construction Defect Center (CDC), 2022 National Builder Survey
Porch.com 2023 Homeowner Experience Survey
Journal of Light Construction, Municipal Inspection Practices (2022)
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Keep Austin Full of People Who Love It
We don’t just buy and sell homes. We build community by helping clients find their place in the world.
Timothy Powles and Adam Stanley work together on the Adam Timothy Group at Compass RA and manage AT Real Estate Group LLC, a rental and vacation property investment business. We are about building community. We believe a real estate transaction is an important and extremely significant event but relationships last a lifetime. Our clients, partners, and friends trust us to get to know their story and what is most important to them. And we work tirelessly to retain that trust.
