Your New Home
Congratulations on your new home. After all the time and effort taken in choosing your house location, design, colors and the various amenities, it must be very rewarding to finally have a completed home of your own making to live in. But unfortunately, your work isn't done. Even though your house is new, there will be issues to deal with and maintenance to complete if you're going to keep it in tip-top shape.
A home inspection report can provide some guidance on the general physical condition of a house; however, it cannot, predict all the changes that may occur or issues that may develop in the future. One condition likely to occur in most homes as they age is settlement. Settlement is the natural downward movement of the house that occurs as loads are placed on the earth or various components of the house. If the house was built on suitable soil using proper construction methods, the settlement will be well within normal tolerances and may only be detectable as slight cracking, which may show up prior to occupancy or within the first few years.
If a portion of the structure settles at a greater rate than an adjacent area, it is more likely to result in more significant cracking or other conditions, such as binding windows or doors. Homes constructed on expansive clay soil are particularly subject to settlement if the soil dries out. Upheaval can occur if the soil becomes overly saturated. The framing of a house settles in conjunction with, as well as independent of, foundation conditions. Some framing settlement is the result of poor design; in other cases construction flaws are to blame.
Another factor that commonly causes cracking in the structure is shrinkage. Shrinkage occurs in wood and many construction materials, even foundations, as the original material dries out. While shrinkage probably accounts for most of the cracks observed in a new home, most are not structurally significant.
Watertightness is another critical issue in new homes, especially as it relates to the roof, plumbing system and foundation. Unfortunately, it is not always possible to predict when such conditions may occur. In older homes, long-term leakage conditions may leave tell-tale signs such as stains or decay. With a new home, leakage may not become apparent for a while. Consequently, the attic and areas below bathrooms, kitchens and other areas containing plumbing components or mechanical equipments should be checked periodically. Likewise, basement and crawlspace areas must also be monitored for any signs of seepage. One of the contributing factors for water seepage in these areas is poor foundation grading and drainage caused by settlement of the original backfill around the perimeter of the house. Depressed areas need to be built-up periodically and all roof drains maintained to direct water away from the foundation. Within a few years, exterior caulking and finishes often need to be redone to prevent infiltration or premature aging of the house envelope.
All fixtures, appliances, and the heating and cooling systems should be run at the pre-closing inspection and immediately after occupancy in an effort to detect any equipment or installation flaws. More than any other component, the plumbing system accounts for the most post-inspection concerns. Anywhere in the house where water is used, leaks can develop as the system is put into use. Some may show up soon after occupancy; others may happen gradually.
It may not be just water flow but lack of it that indicates a concern. Uninsulated piping could result in pipe freeze-up in cold weather. Drain lines, including the main sewer line, can be clogged with construction debris or become damaged due to soil settlement.
Many new building products can only be truly tested after they have been in place or used for an extended period. In addition to the physical condition of elements, there is a potential for inherent design issues to only surface years after construction or installation. This includes issues such as the adequacy of the heating or cooling system.
Over the last two decades or so, concerns have developed with many wood-composite materials, synthetic stucco (EIFS) siding, and certain types of plastic piping, just to name a few products, that led to manufacturer service notices and litigation. The reporting of specific product defects, recall notices, or any actual or potential litigation is beyond the scope of a home inspection. If you desire such information, we suggest contacting the builder, manufacturer or appropriate specialists to arrange an evaluation.
In addition to potential issues with structural components or the function of mechanical equipment, there are several safety and security issues that should be addressed. Make sure there are smoke, fire and carbon monoxide detectors on all levels. Check general security provisions including lighting and locks. Check the operation of all doors and windows (painted shut units are common). Garage door and opener operation, if present, should also be checked and adjusted as indicated by the manufacturer. Maintain hot-water temperatures at safe levels.
Also, before closing, check with the local authorities on such issues as flood areas and common development construction problems. Obtain all validated warranties and operating instructions from the builder. Review all service agreements and contracts. In many areas, builders are required to participate in approved warranty programs. Most conditions which develop within the first year of construction are covered items under implied warranty laws or warranty programs. Contact your builder for specific details and if there are any questions.
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