GET A NEW HOME INSPECTED!

I recently had a long discussion with a buyer of new construction about inspecting the new construction house he was buying.  He was adamant that he didn't need a home inspection since the builder is offering a one year warranty (as required by KY law).   I suggested it happen from the beginning of the 11 month period to build. this was in 2017 so builders were VERY backed up on time frames.

I reminded my client of many experiences where new construction has needed more corrections that existing construction.

I have two basic examples of how corners were cut and the problem shows up later.

 

1. A floor vent was NOT connected to a vent pipe.  Luckily this client was watching the construction closely and upon the first punch list walk through we determined the furnace was not pushing air into the master bedroom and it needed to be addressed.  I came back to it and pulled the floor register/vent off and reached into the vent thinking maybe it was clogged with construction debris.  NOPE!  Not even connected to a pipe.   Now this house had a crawl space and the buyer wasn't entering it for any regular reason but the supply line was not attached or missing altogether.  (jury is still out on this one)

 

2. The roofer DID NOT flash the chimney.      This was one found many years later after the original roof was replaced.  I know this client very well and the roof was 20 years old.   No replacement was ever required but small leaks did present themselves occasionally and this homeowner patched or made every attempt to stem the flow.   When it was finally replaced the new roofer found it was never flashed at all.  The homeowner had caulked the vinyl siding enough to stop the flow of water into the structure but it did cause some minor discoloration and wood rot.   Luckily nothing major but did require new vinyl work after the roof was completed. 

 

 

When you are going to make a very large investment, do not rely on a home warranty to repair or correct mistakes.   They sometimes are not found for many years.  GET A HOME INSPECTION!   Do not skimp on an inspection.  If you can't afford the inspection, you shouldn't be buying a house.

 

The Borders Team can walk you through the home buying process and help you find the right home inspector in your area. 

 

You can search for all homes in the Louisville area market here

 

 

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