Traditional Home Inspections vs. Warranty Inspections: What You Need to Know
When it comes to inspecting a home, not all inspections are created equal. At Dwellinspect Arizona, we understand the importance of knowing the differences between a traditional home inspection and a warranty inspection for new construction homes. Whether you're buying a resale property or ensuring your newly built home is free from defects before the builder's warranty expires, choosing the right type of inspection is key. We’ve broken down the main differences to help you determine which inspection fits your needs.
Key Differences Between a Traditional Home Inspection and a Warranty Inspection
The primary distinction between these two types of inspections lies in their focus areas. While a traditional home inspection evaluates the condition of a home based on industry standards set by the Arizona Board of Technical Registration, a warranty inspection follows the Workmanship Standards for Licensed Contractors established by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.
Traditional Home Inspection:
Ideal for resale homes or older properties.
Focuses on structural integrity, functionality, and safety.
Reports issues based on severity and age of the home.
Warranty Inspection:
Designed for new construction homes still under builder warranty.
Targets cosmetic and workmanship defects.
Ensures compliance with contractor standards before warranties expire.
What’s Included in Each Inspection?
Warranty Inspection Focus Examples
Cosmetic Details: Blue tape is used to mark minor defects such as nail pops, drywall cracks, and paint imperfections.
Thorough Documentation: Every occurrence of an issue is recorded, no matter how small.
Cabinetry and Countertops: Checked for minor scratches, chips, or alignment issues.
Tile and Flooring: Every tile is inspected to ensure proper installation.
Structural Details: Walls that aren’t 90º to each other are noted.
Irrigation and Stucco: These systems are inspected in greater detail to catch flaws that may go unnoticed.
Limited Mechanical Checks: HVAC, electrical, and fireplaces receive a less detailed inspection compared to traditional inspections.
Exclusions: Household appliances and water heaters are typically not tested.
Traditional Home Inspection Focus Examples
Functionality Over Cosmetics: Focuses on safety, operability, and performance of systems.
Representative Documentation: Only a sample of recurring issues, like stucco imperfections, is noted.
Appliances and Utilities: Household appliances, water heaters, HVAC, and electrical systems are thoroughly tested.
Structural Integrity: Reports on foundational and structural issues without emphasizing minor cosmetic flaws.
Less Focus on Cosmetics: Small paint cracks, nail pops, and other minor aesthetic issues are often omitted.
Real-World Example: Stucco Inspections
A key example of the difference between these two inspections can be seen in how stucco is evaluated.
Traditional Inspection: The inspector might document a few instances of wire lath showing through the stucco and recommend a contractor assess the entire home.
Warranty Inspection: The inspector could spend 1-2 hours documenting every instance of improper stucco application, ensuring each defect is reported for warranty claims.
Why Does the Age of the Home Matter?
The age and condition of a home influence the inspector’s approach. Older homes often have more wear and tear, so inspectors focus on safety and functionality rather than minor imperfections. In contrast, a newly built home should meet higher standards. For example:
A 75-year-old home with minor water damage under the kitchen sink might not raise alarms.
A 10-year-old home with similar damage may warrant attention but not urgency.
A brand-new home with any water damage could indicate an issue during construction, requiring builder intervention and possible replacement.
Choosing the Right Inspection for Your Home
If you’re buying a resale home, a traditional home inspection ensures you’re aware of any major issues before closing the deal. However, if you’re purchasing or have recently moved into a new construction home, a warranty inspection can help you catch cosmetic or structural issues that may be covered under your builder’s warranty.
Final Thoughts
No matter the type of inspection you need, Dwellinspect Arizona is here to help you protect your investment. Traditional home inspections focus on safety and functionality, while warranty inspections ensure your new construction home meets the highest standards before your warranty expires.
If you’re unsure which inspection is right for you, contact us today to schedule a consultation. With Dwellinspect Arizona, you can rest assured that your home is thoroughly inspected and your peace of mind is our priority.