Drone roof inspection costs vary depending on the roof’s size, complexity, and material. Use this guide to budget for a drone roof inspection.
Hire an Inspector for a Newly Built Home?
Dear Angie: Should I hire an independent home inspector to look over a newly built tract home? — Deborah D. of Renton, Washington
Iriana Shiyan - stock.adobe.com
Iriana Shiyan - stock.adobe.com
Get quotes from up to 3 pros!
Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you.
Dear Deborah: What you’re considering is a good idea, say experts in home inspection, real estate, and home-building.
Even though there should be periodic local-government inspections during the construction process, and even if you have a home warranty, getting feedback from an independent and reputable home inspector is like added insurance against major costs should a problem be overlooked.
Inspection Is Almost Like Extra Insurance
Before you close on the new home, arranging for a final, overall post-construction inspection by an objective third party can help ensure that the builder—not you—ends up handling any repairs.
Even the most experienced, reputable builders can make mistakes. They typically rely on a small army of subcontractors to do work ranging from framing to plumbing, electrical, and drywall. Certainly, close oversight can alleviate many issues, but the sheer variety and volume of work lend themselves to the potential for at least some defects being overlooked before closing.
Examples of Overlooked Issues
Some of the issues that top-rated home inspectors told us they’ve found when looking over newly built homes: • improperly installed roofs• faulty wiring• plumbing leaks• structural issues• missing insulation• mold• HVAC systems that don’t work properly• improper grading
Tips for Hiring a Home Inspector
Such problems can affect not only the quality of a new home but its safety. Home warranties are no guarantee that you’ll get problems fixed for free, either. In the absence of an inspection, it may be difficult to prove that a problem occurred before you took possession of the home. Some issues may go unnoticed until after a warranty expires, too.
The cost for a home inspection can vary, starting at around $400 for a 2,000-square-foot home.
Look for a home inspector with experience, who is appropriately licensed based on local guidelines, and who has positive consumer reviews on a trusted site. Check to see that the inspector belongs to a professional association such as the American Society of Home Inspectors.
Angie Hicks is the founder of Angi.
The homeowners guide to home inspections
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
If you’re buying a home, having an inspection offers reassurance that it’s in good condition. How much a home inspection costs varies depending on the home's size, age, condition, and location.
A home inspection is the best way to avoid unexpected repairs after buying a home. Find out how long a house inspection is good for to prepare for closing.
Who to call to identify a smell in your home depends on the type of smell. While a home inspector is the go-to, you may actually want to hire someone else.
Learn about mobile home inspection costs and some additional costs you might have to pay so you can budget before moving in or closing on your new home.
Thinking about buying a condo? Use this comprehensive condo inspection checklist before you seal the deal.
Tell us about the job—we’ll find top pros.