Cosmetic to Structural: A New Home Inspection Guide

The thrill of receiving keys to your new home can overshadow potential issues lurking within. Before you sign off on the occupancy permit, watch out for these red flags. It might just save you a substantial amount of money down the line.

Mind the gap 

A door that won’t close properly, tiling that isn’t flush, and flooring that doesn’t line up can all be indications of low quality or rushed finishes. These cosmetic issues may seem minor, but they’re often a sign of other building shortcuts throughout the house or apartment. 

For instance, a door that doesn’t want to close, or has had wood removed so it does, can be the result of a door frame that has shifted. The problem may have been superficially fixed, but structurally there could be a problem looming behind your walls. 

Muddy puddles

For new builds especially, the surrounding yard can often be muddy after the comings and goings of trades and machinery. However, if you notice puddles of water make a regular appearance, your property may have a drainage problem. You should be especially mindful of this red flag if the water pools close to the home’s foundations as it can lead to structural issues in the future. 

Mould, mildew, and moisture 

In addition to water pooling outside the house, internal moisture is another significant warning sign. However, detecting this can be somewhat more challenging. It usually takes up to 12 months for a new build to completely dry out, as moisture results from both the construction process and the presence of dampness in certain building materials. Standard ventilation and heating should be more than enough to dry out the home and prevent damp from forming during that period. 

Red flags usually surface after the first 12 months. Dampness or mould appearing beyond this period should be covered by your warranty, so make sure to swiftly contact your builder or developer if such issues arise. 

Going, going gone 

The history of a home can be very telling.  Frequent turnover of a property in quick succession could indicate impending expensive repairs, a troublesome neighbour, or an undesirable location. Learn from others' missteps to avoid a potentially costly situation. 

The final walk-through may seem overwhelming, and many people feel inclined to sign off and settle the remaining fees out of goodwill. Stay vigilant, communicate effectively, and keep in mind that you're nearly there – soon enough, the moment to rejoice in your brand-new home will arrive at your doorstep.