In general terms, every new home has a one-year warranty by the builder, covering defects in workmanship or materials. Builders also frequently purchase additional warranties to cover their liability and to use as marketing tools. These additional home warranties are very specific about what they cover and many warranty contracts stipulate that the original one-year warranty is replaced by the new home warranty.
You should make every effort to understand your warranty and protect your investment. Defects in new homes fall into several categories. Among these are, obvious material and workmanship defects, and hidden material and workmanship defects. You have probably taken care of both obvious defect categories. Appliances that do not function correctly and cosmetic issues are two of the most common. The defects that are more difficult to see are the ones that should concern you. Problems such as improper wiring, small exterior openings, (allowing moisture or insects to get in), improper ventilation, poor landscaping drainage, roofing damage, and others are among the most common.
Over time, many hidden defects cause substantial damage to homes. Improper drainage can damage foundations leading to structural problems. Small exterior leaks can lead to mold, termites and other wood destroying organisms. Electrical problems often remain unnoticed until someone is injured or worse.
Your real problem is that these issues frequently take longer than one year to show up. By then, either your warranty has expired or you're into limited coverage and deductibles. You need to document issues and have repairs made during the warranty period!
"Hidden" defects frequently have symptoms of their existence. I use my knowledge of new construction techniques to alert me to the probability of these issues. Once alerted, I focus in on those systems for further review. I do not claim to be able to find everything hidden from the homeowner but I'll find most of it and give you an education as we go!
I always suggest homeowners start with a simple letter to their builder. Explain the situation, and that you expect timely repairs during your warranty period. Move to a registered letter or other steps as necessary, being careful to allow time for communications and repairs during the warranty period.
Your inspection should be in months nine through ten of your first year. This allows the maximum time for issues to arise and time for builder repairs during the warranty period. If you have any questions about warranty inspections, just give me a call at 214-843-4003. You will not run into any high pressure sales tactics, just honest, informative answers to your questions. I'll be pleased to assist you.
Photos taken from Henderson Home Inspections conducted Mid-May, 2017 in North Texas on homes built in 2017 and that buyers' were due to close on the following week after inspections. This is why we urge buyers to have a home inspection while construction is taking place and definitely before closing!
The 1-Year New Home Warranty Inspection focuses on identifying hidden defects or issues in your new home that may not be visible immediately. This includes improper wiring, small exterior openings that can allow moisture or insects in, roofing issues, poor drainage, and ventilation problems. It ensures that your builder addresses these before the warranty expires.
Scheduling an inspection between months 9 and 10 of your first year is ideal. This timing allows maximum opportunity for issues to surface and gives your builder time to address any problems before your warranty expires. Early identification of hidden defects can save you from costly repairs in the future.
The best time to schedule your 1-Year New Home Warranty Inspection is in the 9th or 10th month after moving in. This gives you ample time to identify any hidden issues and get them fixed by your builder within the warranty period, ensuring your home remains in top condition.
While your builder’s warranty may cover some defects, it’s essential to have an independent inspection to ensure nothing is overlooked. Hidden defects, such as electrical issues or structural concerns, may not be apparent immediately but could cause significant damage later. A professional inspection will provide peace of mind.
Your new home is a major investment, and the 1-Year New Home Warranty Inspection helps protect that investment by identifying and addressing hidden issues that may otherwise go unnoticed. This proactive approach ensures your builder repairs any problems before your warranty expires, preserving the long-term value of your home.
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