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The three main types of home inspections you should always carry out for new construction include a pre-drywall inspection, a post-drywall inspection, and a one-year inspection. The pre-drywall inspection can identify building code violations, issues with plumbing, electrical, and HVAC components, and structural issues. The post-drywall inspection can identify damaged building materials, insufficient insulation, and more. An inspection at the one-year mark after construction will identify problems your builder must fix under their comprehensive one-year warranty.

Yes, home additions almost always increase a home's value and can be a good investment by enhancing both its utility and square footage. The actual return depends on several factors, including the type of addition, quality of work, and local market conditions. Key additions like extra bedrooms, bathrooms, and larger kitchens tend to offer the highest returns. For example, adding a primary suite might result in a 63% return on investment, while a sunroom may yield around a 49% return. For the best results, additions should be well-planned to integrate seamlessly with the existing structure.

Any unexplained smell in your house should be investigated. However, some home odors are "red flag" worrisome because they pose immediate health and safety risks. Odors should be taken seriously when accompanied by headaches, nausea, or lightheadedness. If you smell an egg-like aroma, this is probably natural gas. You should leave the home immediately, and  contact your gas company.  

It is generally recommended to schedule a professional plumbing inspection annually for an average home. However, the ideal frequency can vary. Newer homes may only require an inspection every two years, while older homes, or those with a history of plumbing problems, benefit from more frequent annual checkups. Other factors that might necessitate more frequent inspections include having hard water or mature trees on your property with extensive root systems that could damage sewer and water lines. Regular maintenance helps identify potential issues early, preventing costly repairs, and typically includes checking for leaks, inspecting connections, and ensuring pipes and fixtures are in good working condition to extend the life of your plumbing system.