A new build home comes with the excitement of fresh starts and modern features, but there’s also a layer of responsibility that many homeowners overlook—the warranty. Moving in feels like the final step, but maintenance could play a bigger role in your first year than expected.
What should you know to truly protect your home’s value and avoid future headaches? Let’s review the essentials—and some surprising details about warranties that every new build homeowner should consider.
What Does Your New Build Home Warranty Cover?
Typically, the warranty on a new protects homeowners from certain unexpected repairs during early ownership. The scope of coverage can vary based on what’s under the “exclusions” section of your warranty, but here’s what is often included:
- Structural Components like foundations, roofing, and framing, ensuring that major elements of your home are secure and sound.
- Core Systems such as electrical, plumbing, and HVAC, offering support for the home’s essential functions.
- Cosmetic Issues like minor wall cracks or surface flaws, usually covered within the first year, as the home settles.
Builders sometimes offer different levels of warranty coverage, with specific timelines and terms, so it’s wise to review your documents carefully. Being aware of certain warranty details will help you track potential problem areas and maximize your coverage use.
Common First-Year Findings
Many assume a new build will be trouble-free, but as a home settles, minor issues often come to light. Almost a quarter (24%) of new home buyers say their home showed some kind of findings requiring action.
Typical concerns that may appear in the first year might include:
- Small cracks in walls, floors, or ceilings
- HVAC performance inconsistencies, especially with seasonal changes
- Plumbing leaks or drainage issues
- Doors or windows that don’t close smoothly due to slight shifting
These issues are normal in new construction and are often covered within the first year of a new build warranty. Keeping an eye out for these minor problems and addressing them right away helps you get the most from your builder warrantee and save the most in long-term repairs.
Preparing for a 1-Year Builders Warranty Inspection
Scheduling your 1-year builders warranty inspection around the 10- to 11-month mark is ideal, as it allows any issues to surface while still giving you time to address them. Preparing ahead can make the inspection smoother and more effective. Here’s how to get ready:
- Review Your Warranty Documents to understand what’s covered and any exclusions.
- Make a List of Notable Issues that you’ve noticed since moving in, such as settling cracks, HVAC inconsistencies, or doors and windows that don’t close as smoothly as before.
- Collect Repair Records if your builder has already made adjustments or repairs. These will help the inspector evaluate whether previous fixes are holding up or need further action.
During the inspection, a licensed inspector thoroughly examines key components of your home, focusing on areas where issues might appear as the home settles. The goal is to catch any problems while they’re still covered, and generally, the inspector will check:
- Foundation for cracks, signs of settling, or moisture intrusion that could impact stability.
- Roof and Exterior for leaks, material issues, or areas that might not be weatherproof.
- Plumbing and Electrical Systems to ensure they’re operating safely and efficiently, avoiding issues like leaks or faulty wiring.
- HVAC System to confirm it’s functioning as it should and adjusting to seasonal demands.
After the inspection, the inspector provides a detailed report with photos and descriptions of any findings. This report serves as documentation for any repair requests you submit to your builder so everything needing attention is clearly identified.
Other Recommended New Home Maintenance
In addition to your warranty inspection, regular maintenance habits can help preserve your new home’s condition and avoid larger issues down the road:
- Schedule HVAC Maintenance Seasonally to keep your heating and cooling systems efficient.
- Inspect Gutters and Downspouts every few months to prevent clogs and ensure water drains away from your foundation.
- Check Window and Door Seals for drafts to reduce energy waste and maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.
When to Call a Professional Inspector
Even beyond the warranty period, professional inspections provide valuable insight and help catch potential issues before they become costly repairs. Consider scheduling an inspection if:
- Your home experiences extreme weather that may impact the roof, foundation, or other structural elements.
- You notice changes in doors, windows, or floors like sticking, unevenness, or moisture buildup, which could indicate structural shifts or settling.
- You’re planning a major renovation that may impact core systems or structural components, ensuring that any updates are completed safely.
Conclusion
Taking full advantage of your new build home warranty can make a lasting difference in your first year of homeownership. A professional warranty inspection helps ensure that all potential issues are addressed, securing the long-term value and quality of your home.
If you’re ready to schedule your warranty inspection, the experts with AHI Residential and Commercial Inspections can help—contact us today in Charlotte, NC, and surrounding areas.