Buying a newly built home feels different from buying a resale, but the inspection rhythm is still critical.
A new construction home benefits from three distinct checkpoints: before the walls close, just before you take keys, and again near the end of the builder’s warranty.
Below is a practical timeline, what each phase covers, and how to coordinate with your builder so the inspection report leads to necessary repairs instead of last-minute stress.
Why Do You Need a Home Inspection on a New Construction Home?
A new home may be newly constructed, but it is still a complex project assembled on a schedule by multiple trades.
Missed flashing at a window, a cut joist, or an improperly terminated bath fan can hide once drywall goes up. An independent home inspector provides a second set of trained eyes who works for the homebuyer, not the builder; the inspection report documents defects that may impact the property’s condition and gives the builder a clear punch-list to make things right.
If you are using an FHA loan, your lender will expect the builder’s documentation to align with current HUD handbook requirements, which is another reason to keep the inspection process structured and on time.
What Are the Main Types of Inspections for New Construction?
Pre-Drywall Inspection
This first inspection happens after framing, roof sheathing, windows, and mechanical rough-ins are complete, but before insulation and drywall.
The inspector reviews structural components (foundation, frame, trusses), evaluates rough electrical wiring and panel layout, checks supply and waste lines for correct slope and support, and verifies HVAC systems layout and returns while ducts are still visible.
Because the skeleton of the home is exposed, issues like missing fire blocking, unsealed exterior penetrations, or an out-of-plumb wall can be corrected without demolishing finishes.
Final Walkthrough (Pre-Closing) Inspection
A few days before closing, a comprehensive inspection addresses the completed home, both the interior and exterior.
The inspector tests GFCI/AFCI protection where required, confirms fixtures are venting properly, runs appliances, operates windows and doors, and checks grading to see if water will drain away from the foundation. You and your builder create a walk-through list (often called a punch list), noting paint touch-ups, door adjustments, or a chipped tub.
The report becomes the record the builder uses to schedule repairs or adjustments before the certificate of occupancy paperwork and your final signing.
11-Month Warranty Inspection
Near the end of the builder’s one-year workmanship warranty, schedule another inspection.
Seasonal cycles reveal movement and mechanical behavior: drywall nail pops, settlement at walls, or HVAC imbalances in far rooms.
A fresh inspection report, submitted through the builder’s warranty portal, gives the builder a clear set of items to address before the warranty expires, which preserves your peace of mind and budget.
When Should You Schedule Each New Construction Inspection?
The timing is straightforward, but it requires coordination.
The pre-drywall inspection should ideally occur after rough-ins are approved by the city but before insulation is installed; ask your superintendent for the target week when framing and MEP inspections appear as “passed” in the permit portal.
The final inspection is best a few days before closing, so the builder has time to complete necessary repairs; check for a “re-inspection” window on the city’s inspection calendar.
The 11-month inspection should be booked several weeks before the warranty expiration to leave time for scheduling trades and material lead times.
How Do You Coordinate Inspections With Your Builder?
Tell the builder you plan phase inspections when you sign the purchase agreement; many builders already expect this and will add your inspector to the jobsite access list.
Ask the superintendent which days are open for third-party visits so you avoid conflict with municipal inspections, then send your inspector’s certificate of insurance and any jobsite safety acknowledgments your builder requires.
To verify timing, look up your permit on the city’s online portal and match your visit to the construction work sequence.
If you’re financing with FHA, your lender will also collect specific new-construction documentation governed by the current HUD Handbook 4000.1, so keep your schedule firm enough for the lender to meet closing timelines.
How Can Inspections Protect Your Investment?
Each inspection reduces the chance of expensive rework later.
Pre-drywall findings let the builder correct construction flaws while access is open; final walkthrough items align the completed home with your contract; and the 11-month inspection captures defects that may not be visible on day one.
For added assurance, verify your inspector’s license on your state board’s site and keep copies of the report, repair invoices, and re-inspection notes with your closing documents.
Those records support warranty requests and, if you later sell, demonstrate that the newly constructed home received independent oversight.
FAQs About Scheduling Home Inspections for New Construction
Do I need an inspection if the city already inspects the home?
City inspectors check that the house meets basic code, but they’re not looking at the details that matter to you as a homeowner. A private inspector takes the time to walk the whole property, flagging workmanship issues or small defects the city might miss.
One makes sure it’s legal; the other helps ensure it’s livable.
Can a builder refuse to allow inspections for new construction?
Many builders allow phase inspections with notice and proof of insurance; the requirement to allow access is governed by your purchase agreement.
Ask to include an inspection addendum up front so the superintendent can plan around the inspection process.
What happens if problems are found during the pre-drywall inspection?
Your inspector will document defects with photos and clear summaries; you then share the report with the builder to schedule necessary repairs. The goal is to correct issues while they are inexpensive to fix rather than after drywall hides the work.
How do I schedule a home inspection without delaying closing?
Confirm permit status on your city’s online portal and ask the superintendent for a window between city re-inspections and your final walk-through.
Booking the inspector as soon as the builder has completed major work keeps the timeline intact.
How do I verify a home inspector’s credentials?
Use your state licensing lookup to confirm the license and any discipline, and request proof of E&O and general liability coverage. For example, Texas TREC and Florida DBPR publish public license searches by name or number.
