Home Inspections in Dallas Fort Worth
If you are buying a new construction home in the Dallas Fort Worth metroplex, you may assume that hiring an independent home inspector for the final inspection is unnecessary. After all, the county inspector has to make sure that everything is up to standard…right? Well, that all depends on your definition of “standard.” County inspectors are required to make sure your new construction home lives up to minimum building code. You’ve just invested a few-hundred-grand into customizing your dream home – “minimum” isn’t good enough.
Do I Need a New Construction Home Inspection in Dallas Fort Worth?
Yes! Reputable home builders in Dallas Fort Worth usually welcome third-party home inspections. The final home inspection should take place after construction is 100% complete as part of the final walk-through. A new construction home inspection performed by a third-party can help ensure you’re purchasing a quality, hazard-free home that is a good investment in the long run.
New Construction Home Inspection – What to Look For
New Construction Home Inspection Dallas Fort Worth – Thomas Engineering Consultants
During a new construction home inspection, the inspector will look at more than 500 components including:
- Roofing, chimneys, and gutters
- Exterior features such as sheds, decks, patios, garages, and driveways
- The overall condition of the home’s foundation, basements, and crawlspaces
- Windows and doors
- The HVAC system, including the thermostat
- Plumbing, toilets, and sinks
- Electrical outlets, breaker boxes, meters, and panel boards
- Attic fans, insulation, and ventilation
- Appliances: dishwashers, disposals, ovens, microwaves, and irrigation systems
We always recommend being present for the final home inspection. While he is there, your home inspector will flip each light switch on and off, run the faucets to check for leaks, and visually inspect the ceiling, walls, and floors for signs of moisture intrusion or foundation movement. He will make a lot of noise opening and closing doors and windows, testing appliances, operating garage doors, and flushing toilets. For about an hour, you will experience what it basically feels like to live with a child under the age of ten!
Tip for Scheduling a New Construction Home Inspection
Let your project manager know in advance that you’ve hired an independent home inspector for a new construction home inspection. This will help keep him on his toes and hold him more accountable to the timeline for project completion.
New Construction Home Inspection Cost
The new construction home inspection cost can vary, depending on your location and the company you choose to perform the inspection. Your house is likely one of the largest purchases/investments you will ever make. As such, we don’t recommend choosing your home inspector based solely on price. Instead, look at online reviews and decide which home inspector is right for you.
New Construction Home Inspector Near Me
If you purchase a new construction home in the Dallas Fort Worth metroplex and choose to skip the home inspection, you could be making a costly mistake.
TEC Home Inspectors have performed many new construction home inspections and routinely uncover issues that need to be dealt with while the builder is “still on the hook.” Additionally, make sure that your new construction home has a warranty in place to protect you if any surprises (problems with appliances, etc.) arise after you move in.
Remember, just because your home is brand new doesn’t mean that it is flawless below the surface. Hire an independent third-party home inspector to help you protect your investment.