An Inspection Is Indeed Necessary for Pre-Construction Homes
When you buy a pre-sale home, you’re essentially buying a promise. We’re saying this because you can only see the blueprints, models, and perhaps a show home when buying but you cannot see and inspect the actual property. This makes the inspection process a must-do task for the buyers of pre-construction properties.
The inspection ensures that the final product (your new home) matches the promise (the initial blueprints and models). Also, the property inspection process ensures the home is free of issues and defects that could be a headache for you down the road.
Yes, you heard that right! Even though the property is newly built that doesn’t imply it’s completely free from potential issues. There could be construction errors, faulty materials, or overlooked details in the home that can cause problems for you later on. Hence, a property inspection helps you identify these issues before you move into the new home, ensuring everything is up to standard.
Here are some common issues that could be revealed during the inspection process of pre-construction properties in Ontario -
Structural Integrity
Structural integrity refers to the strength and stability of the home’s framework including its foundation, walls, and roof. Issues with structural integrity can lead to costly and stressful issues for you as a homeowner.
For instance, cracks in the foundation or walls may indicate that the home is settling unevenly or that the soil beneath is unstable. Poorly constructed or improperly supported load-bearing walls can cause structural failure and affect the safety of your new home. Inspectors will also look for signs of improper installation of beams, columns, and supports which are essential for maintaining a home’s stability.
Electrical Systems
Home inspections often find that some outlets or switches are not properly grounded in newly built homes. This can lead to electrical shocks or damage to appliances in your new home.
Another issue often found in pre-construction properties is the use of incorrect or insufficient circuit breakers. Because of this, adequate protection will not be provided against electrical overloads. Additionally, the electrical systems and outlet may not be placed as per building code requirements, leading to potential safety risks.
Plumbing
The professional inspector will check the water supply lines, drains, toilets, sinks, showers, and garbage disposals to catch plumbing issues. They’ll look for signs of leaks, clogs, or incorrect installation in the newly built home.
Additionally, the inspectors can also catch issues with water pressure, water heater function, and the overall efficiency of the plumbing system. By catching these problems in the pre-construction property early on, you can get them fixed before they turn into bigger, more expensive issues.
HVAC System
The inspector you’ll hire to evaluate the condition of the home will also check if the HVAC system is correctly sized for your home. This is necessary to ensure that the HVAC system can efficiently heat or cool your space. The professional will examine the ductwork for leaks or obstructions that can reduce efficiency and hike up energy bills.
The way the HVAC system is installed is also crucial as a poorly installed unit can lead to breakdowns and reduced lifespan. Lastly, the inspector will verify that the HVAC system operates correctly, checking for unusual noises, leaks, or inadequate airflow.
Insulation and Energy Efficiency
The inspector can find problems such as insufficient insulation in walls, attics, or basements in the pre-construction properties. These issues if unresolved can lead to higher energy costs, uncomfortable temperatures, and even mould growth in your new home. Also, the inspector will check for air leaks around windows, doors, and electrical outlets. These leaks can cause drafts, energy loss, and higher heating and cooling bills for the new homeowner.
What Do You Need to Do After the Home Inspection of the Pre-Sales House?
After the inspection process of your newly built home is done, there are a few important steps you need to take as a homebuyer. First, review the report the inspector has provided detailing the problems discovered in the newly built home. Review the report together with your real estate agent to understand the severity of each issue and then discuss it with the builder.
If the problems found during the home inspection are minor, the builder may agree to fix them. For the bigger issues, the builder may sign off to resolve the problems or they might offer compensation to cover the cost of repairs.
But if the builder is uncooperative or the problems are too severe, you may need to consider your options carefully. In some cases, you can try to renegotiate a repair plan with the builder, ensuring that the issues in the pre-construction property are fixed to your satisfaction. Make sure to get any agreements with the builder regarding repairs in writing to avoid future disputes.
However, if the builder still doesn’t agree to do the repairs as per your wish, cancelling the deal may be the last (and best) resort. Your purchase agreement should outline the conditions under which you can knack out of the deal. Usually, there should be a contingency clause related to the home inspection of the pre-sales home. As per the contingency, if the issues are severe and cannot be resolved, you may be able to terminate the contract and get your deposit refunded.
When Is It Okay to Skip the Inspection for a Pre-Sale Home?
In certain rare cases, you can choose to skip the inspection process of the newly built home. For instance - when a highly reputable builder with a good track record is behind the pre-construction properties. Also, if you have been intimately involved in the construction process and have witnessed firsthand the quality of materials and workmanship, you can skip inspection.
Another scenario when you can forgo professional inspection is when you have the experience and expertise in inspecting homes for issues. However, keep in mind that these situations are the exception rather than the rule for home inspections.
Real estate experts always recommend buyers of pre-sale homes go ahead with the home inspection process without fail. A professional inspection can ensure you’re fully aware of the condition of your new home and save you unnecessary stress and costs down the line.