How to Vet a Home Inspector for New Construction Properties

New construction homes come with modern finishes, up-to-date building materials, and the latest energy-efficient systems. But that doesn’t mean they’re immune to construction defects—or that every home inspector is qualified to assess them properly.

Whether you're an agent advising a client or a buyer preparing for a new build, choosing the right inspector is critical. New construction inspections require a specific skill set, and not all inspectors have the training, experience, or tools to evaluate a home that’s still under construction—or just finished.

Here’s what you need to know to confidently vet a home inspector for a new construction property in Arizona.

Understanding New Construction Complexity

Inspecting a brand-new home is very different from inspecting an older resale property.

In resale homes, inspectors look for wear and tear—think roof age, water stains, or appliance failures. In new construction, the focus shifts to quality of installation, code compliance, and phased inspections that catch mistakes before they get covered up or become expensive to fix.

Common issues in new builds include:

• Incorrectly installed framing, plumbing, or electrical work

• HVAC systems that aren’t properly sized or sealed

• Missing insulation or improper roof flashing

• Slab cracks or poor grading—especially common in Arizona’s soil conditions

A qualified new construction inspector knows how to spot shortcuts, navigate partially completed systems, and understand where builders are most likely to cut corners.

The Right Questions to Ask Your Inspector

When interviewing inspectors, don’t just ask about pricing or availability. Instead, dig deeper to make sure they’re truly prepared for the unique challenges of new construction.

Here are a few key questions to ask:

• “Do you offer phased inspections for new builds?”
  Look for inspectors who recommend multiple inspections (e.g., pre-drywall, final walkthrough, and 11-month warranty), not just a one-time visit.

• “How familiar are you with local and IRC building codes?”
  Municipal inspectors don’t always catch everything—your inspector should know what to look for and when something’s not up to par.

• “Do you have experience working with new home buyers and builders?”
  Inspectors should be comfortable communicating with both buyers and builders and understand how to document findings clearly and professionally.

• “Can I see a sample report from a recent new construction inspection?”
  A thorough, easy-to-read sample report speaks volumes about an inspector’s process and attention to detail.

Certifications and Credentials That Matter

While Arizona doesn’t require separate certification for new construction inspections, the right credentials can indicate a higher level of professionalism and training.

Look for inspectors with:

• InterNACHI (International Association of Certified Home Inspectors)
  Members follow strict standards and must complete ongoing training.

• ICC Certification (International Code Council)
  Indicates knowledge of building codes, which is crucial for new construction.

• AZBTR License
  Arizona requires all home inspectors to be licensed through the Arizona Board of Technical Registration (AZBTR). Make sure your inspector is current and in good standing.

• Additional experience or background in construction trades
  Inspectors with hands-on building experience often have a sharper eye for how things should be done behind the walls.

Beware of ‘Yes-Men’ Inspectors

A good home inspector is thorough, honest, and independent. Be cautious of anyone who:

• Seems reluctant to put issues in writing

• Dismisses concerns as “not a big deal” without explanation

• Has a reputation for being too friendly with builders or site supervisors

• Rattles off vague statements instead of citing specific findings or codes

You want someone who’s not afraid to speak up—even if that means pointing out uncomfortable truths to the builder or project manager.

Pro Tip for Agents: A strong, objective inspection actually protects your buyer and your relationship with them. Don’t refer an inspector who might gloss over issues just to keep the peace with a builder.

Bonus: Inspector Vetting Checklist for Clients

Help your buyers feel empowered by sharing a simple checklist they can use to vet potential inspectors. This can also be a great touchpoint to build trust and reinforce your value as an agent.

New Construction Inspector Vetting Checklist

• Do they offer phased inspections (pre-drywall, final, 11-month)?

• Are they familiar with Arizona-specific building practices and soil conditions?

• Do they hold current InterNACHI or ICC certifications?

• Can they explain local code requirements relevant to new builds?

• Do they provide clear, detailed reports with photos?

• Are they independent, with no affiliation to the builder?

• Do they take time to walk through the findings and answer questions?

Download a shareable version of this checklist to give to your clients or include it in your buyer consultation materials!

Final Thoughts

A high-quality new construction inspection can make the difference between a smooth transition into a new home—or years of dealing with avoidable issues. For real estate agents, guiding clients toward a qualified, unbiased inspector is a key part of providing value and building long-term trust.

At Dwellinspect Arizona, we specialize in phased inspections for new construction throughout the Phoenix metro area. Our licensed, experienced inspectors understand the complexities of modern builds—and we’re here to help you and your clients move in with confidence.