When you buy any home, you want to have an inspection done to make sure that all the major systems and structural components are in good shape. If you are building a home, inspections are an integral part of the process. New construction inspections help you to keep an eye on the progress of your build and ensure that all procedures are in compliance with local codes.

New home construction requires both contractor and financier inspections. Both parties have an invested interest in the progress of the building project. While homeowners don’t often need to be present for these inspections, it’s in their best interest to understand the procedure and the importance of these inspections.

Most lenders have their own local inspectors that work closely with both contractors and the bank. Eastern or Northwest Construction Inspectors have a huge responsibility to deliver accurate appraisals and maintain the project schedule. Inspections may seem like an inconvenience, but in fact, they protect everyone’s interest and ensure that your home build goes smoothly.

Importance of Inspections

Building a house is a massive project with complex logistics. With the right team of contractors, you are likely in good hands. However, regular building inspections help to monitor the progress and alert both homeowners and lenders about any potential problems. When small faults are overlooked in the building process, large issues can emerge down the line. Inspections are meant to eliminate the possibility of disastrous problems and to help keep the process working smoothly. 

The Inspectors

Your new home construction inspection will be handled by a certified professional. Building inspectors are highly trained and qualified unbiased investigators that are experts in the laws and building codes. Your inspectors may be hired by either your contractor or your lender. Different stages of the inspection process may be handled by different inspectors that are specialists in their area. It is the building inspector’s responsibility to ensure that your building project is completed in accordance with all regulations and building standards.

Mandatory Inspections

The inspection process on a new construction home can be lengthy and includes many different parts. As the building process continues, it’s important to monitor progress and mitigate any problems at several stages along the way. Standard mandatory inspections include but are not limited to:

• Footings inspection
• Foundation or slab inspection
• Framing inspection
• Waterproofing inspection
• Final inspection

Who Pays for Inspections?

As a result of inspections being a mandatory part of the building process, your contractor will generally include the cost in your building contract. Essentially, the cost of the inspections will be paid by the homeowner.

Building a new home can be a long and stressful process if you don’t have a full understanding of the details of your project like the inspection process. During your project, your home will be subject to several crucial inspections. Your qualified inspector is there to ensure that your home is built to code and is structurally sound. While it’s not necessary for homeowners to be present for inspections, many choose to visit the building site on the day of the inspection to remain firmly in the project loop. Talk to your lender and your contractor about your inspection schedule today.