A brand-new home should be perfect, right? In reality, new construction homes in California frequently have defects that are missed before the builder hands over the keys. A professional home inspection catches these problems while the builder is still responsible for fixing them.
Why New Homes Need Inspections
City code inspectors focus on minimum code compliance. They inspect dozens of homes per day and check that construction meets the baseline legal requirements. A professional home inspector evaluates something different: quality of installation, proper function, and long-term durability.
These are two fundamentally different standards. A home can pass every code inspection and still have significant issues.
Common Defects Found in California New Construction
Our inspectors routinely find the following in newly built California homes:
HVAC Installation Problems
- Ductwork that is disconnected, crushed, or poorly sealed
- Refrigerant lines not properly insulated
- Systems that are undersized or oversized for the space
- Missing return air pathways
Plumbing Issues
- Slow drains caused by improper slope
- Missing P-traps or improperly vented fixtures
- Hot and cold supply lines reversed
- Water heater temperature and pressure relief valves not properly routed
Electrical Defects
- Missing GFCI protection in kitchens, bathrooms, and garages
- Open junction boxes in the attic
- Loose connections at the panel
- Exterior outlets and fixtures not properly sealed
Structural and Exterior
- Grading that slopes toward the foundation instead of away
- Missing or improperly installed flashing at windows and doors
- Stucco cracks from settling that allow moisture intrusion
- Garage firewall penetrations that are not sealed
Attic and Insulation
- Insulation blown or placed incorrectly, leaving gaps
- Missing vapor barriers
- Attic ventilation that does not meet manufacturer specifications
- Bathroom exhaust fans vented into the attic instead of outside
When to Schedule Your New Construction Inspection
The ideal time is before the final walkthrough with the builder. This gives you documented leverage to request repairs before you close escrow and while the builder is still contractually obligated to fix defects.
If you have already closed, most California builders provide a one-year warranty on workmanship. An inspection within the first year ensures you catch issues before that warranty expires.
What Your Inspection Includes
Every Inspect.re new construction inspection includes the same comprehensive package as any other inspection:
- Full interior and exterior evaluation of every accessible system and component
- Infrared thermal scan to detect insulation gaps, HVAC duct leaks, and moisture intrusion invisible to the naked eye
- Drone roof inspection to check tile, flashing, and ridge installation from above
- 3D virtual tour with tagged inspection findings for easy reference
- Professional floor plan with LIDAR-measured dimensions
- Same-day report with color-coded severity ratings
The Bottom Line
Skipping an inspection on new construction is one of the most expensive shortcuts a California home buyer can take. Builder quality varies, subcontractors make mistakes, and city inspectors cannot catch everything. A professional inspection gives you a complete, documented picture of your new home’s condition, and the leverage to get problems fixed before they become your responsibility.
