Certified Professional Inspector
InterNACHI ID: NACHI21092630
NJ License # 24GI00217800
Radon License # MET14403
New homes come with a builder warranty—but before that coverage expires, it’s critical to have an objective third-party inspection. By the 11-month mark, your home has had time to settle and reveal issues that weren’t visible at closing. Builder walkthroughs often miss these details, but we’re trained to spot conditions that could affect your home’s safety, performance, and long-term durability.
What Can Be Found During an 11-Month Warranty Inspection?
Because the home is still new, it’s easy to assume everything is functioning exactly as it should. In reality, the first year of living in a home is when hidden defects often surface. Normal settling, seasonal changes, and everyday use can expose problems with roofing, grading, drainage, HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical components, and structural elements. If these issues aren’t documented before the warranty expires, you could be left paying for repairs that should have been covered by the builder. Even quality construction can include oversights—and catching them now can save you thousands while protecting your investment.
Foundation & Settlement Issues
During the first year, a home naturally settles. This movement can reveal cracks in foundation walls, uneven floors, sticking doors or windows, and gaps in trim or drywall. These issues may not have been visible at closing, but if left unaddressed, they can lead to long-term structural concerns once the builder warranty expires.
Moisture Intrusion & Water Damage
Seasonal weather and everyday use can expose water intrusion around windows, doors, roofing penetrations, plumbing fixtures, and foundation walls. Minor leaks or improper drainage may go unnoticed until staining, wood damage, or mold growth appears, problems that are far easier to correct while still under warranty.
Plumbing Performance Issues
After months of use, plumbing systems can reveal leaks, poor connections, slow drains, or water pressure problems. Improperly installed pipes, fittings, or fixtures may only show symptoms over time, potentially causing hidden damage behind walls, ceilings, or floors.
Insulation & Ventilation Deficiencies
Improper insulation or ventilation may not be obvious at move-in but can lead to uneven temperatures, excessive humidity, condensation, or increased energy costs. These conditions can also contribute to moisture problems and reduced comfort if not corrected early.
Electrical Defects & Safety Concerns
Electrical systems may develop issues such as loose connections, improperly wired outlets, malfunctioning breakers, or non-functional GFCI/AFCI protection. These defects can pose safety risks and are important to document before the builder warranty ends.