Why New Construction Homes Still Need Inspections At Every Phase
It’s easy to assume that a brand-new home, freshly built and never lived in, must be flawless. After all, it just passed city inspections and comes with that new home smell, right?
Not quite.
Even the most well-known builders can make mistakes, especially when timelines are tight and multiple trades are involved. That’s why it’s essential for buyers to schedule phased home inspections at key stages during the construction process. These inspections serve as an independent, unbiased check on the builder’s work, catching issues early before they become costly (or hidden) headaches.
Let’s break down why every new construction home should be inspected at three key points: pre-drywall, final walkthrough, and the 11-month warranty mark.
The Myth of Perfection in New Builds
The idea that new equals perfect is one of the most persistent myths in real estate.
Yes, a new construction home is often cleaner and more energy-efficient than a resale property. But behind those gleaming finishes can lie problems that even seasoned builders or municipal inspectors might overlook:
Misaligned roof trusses
Missing insulation or air gaps
Improperly installed HVAC ductwork
Loose or unconnected plumbing fittings
GFCI/AFCI outlets wired incorrectly
Inadequate grading around the foundation
These issues aren’t just cosmetic. Left unaddressed, they can impact safety, efficiency, and long-term durability.
Phase 1: Pre-Drywall Inspection
The pre-drywall inspection is arguably the most important phase—and the most overlooked.
This inspection takes place after framing, roofing, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC rough-ins are complete, but before insulation and drywall are installed. It’s the only chance an inspector has to see inside the walls and evaluate the home’s bones.
What we check at this stage:
Proper framing and load support
Window and door flashing to prevent future leaks
Plumbing lines for support and slope
Electrical wiring for safety and code compliance
Ductwork for proper sealing and layout
Fire-blocking and draft-stopping components
Identifying defects now allows the builder to fix them before everything is covered up. It’s also helpful documentation for future homeowners—like when you want to hang a TV, add shelving, or troubleshoot wiring years down the line.
Phase 2: Final Walkthrough Inspection
This inspection typically occurs a few days before the buyer's final walkthrough with the builder. At this point, the home looks move-in ready—but looks can be deceiving.
Our goal here is to ensure that the systems work properly, safety standards are met, and finishing details are complete.
Items we evaluate during the final inspection:
HVAC performance and airflow at each register
Electrical panel labeling and breaker performance
Water pressure, drainage, and fixture installation
Function of doors, windows, locks, and railings
Roof condition, attic access, and insulation coverage
Cosmetic defects like cracked tiles or drywall pops
While the builder may offer a walkthrough, their checklist doesn’t always reflect a trained inspector’s attention to detail. Catching problems now saves time and money—and gives buyers greater peace of mind at closing.
Phase 3: 11-Month Warranty Inspection
Most builders offer a 1-year warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. But many homeowners don’t realize they can—and should—get an inspection around the 11-month mark, just before that warranty expires.
This inspection focuses on newly developed issues that may have surfaced after move-in due to settling, seasonal changes, or installation flaws that took time to appear.
Common issues we find at this stage:
Foundation settlement or drywall cracks
Door or window alignment problems
Loose plumbing fixtures or slow leaks
Roof tile shifts or flashing concerns
Poor attic ventilation causing moisture buildup
Grading or drainage issues post-landscaping
In Arizona, where expansive soil and temperature swings are common, these post-occupancy inspections are especially important.
Pro Tip for Real Estate Agents
Many clients balk at the idea of inspecting a brand-new home. That’s where your role as a trusted advisor comes in.
Here’s how to position phased inspections as a smart investment:
“This isn’t a sign of distrust—it’s about due diligence.” Inspections protect buyers and give the builder a chance to correct mistakes.
“Would you buy a car without a mechanic’s inspection—just because it’s new?” The same logic applies to a six-figure (or more) investment like a home.
“This is your opportunity to set a strong foundation.” Literally. Early inspections can prevent years of repairs and frustration.
Encouraging your clients to schedule these inspections positions you as a proactive, knowledgeable agent who’s looking out for their long-term success.
Final Thoughts
New construction inspections aren’t just a nice-to-have, they’re an essential part of the buying process. By scheduling inspections at pre-drywall, final walkthrough, and 11-month intervals, homeowners gain visibility into the quality of their home and the confidence that it’s built to last.
At Dwellinspect Arizona, we specialize in phased new construction inspections across the Phoenix metro area. We’re your partner in protecting your client’s biggest investment—from the ground up.