Loading...Most people know that a home inspection is important for resale homes, but what about new builds? Do you really need one?
Many buyers assume that a home inspection is unnecessary for newly constructed properties. They believe that because the home is brand new, there won’t be any issues, or that municipal inspections and builder checks are enough. However, even new builds can have defects that aren’t immediately obvious. If you ever encounter a situation where your new home needs significant repairs, you’ll likely regret not having conducted an inspection before buying a house. Catching issues early can save you time, money, and stress. Addressing repairs upfront is often far less expensive than waiting for them to escalate.
What Is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a comprehensive evaluation of a property’s structural, mechanical, and safety components. A qualified home inspector will assess various aspects of the home, including electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC, roofing, and more. The goal is to ensure the home is built correctly and that no issues are overlooked before you take possession.
Home Inspection Checklist: Key Areas to Review
Below is a general checklist of what a home inspector will evaluate. While not exhaustive, it gives you a good idea of what to expect. If an inspector skips any of these, consider getting a second opinion before hiring them.
- Exterior
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- Roofing (shingles, flashing, gutters)
- Foundation and grading (look for cracks or water drainage issues)
- Siding, windows, and doors (sealing and insulation)
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- Interior
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- Walls, ceilings, and floors (cracks, uneven surfaces, poor finishes)
- Windows and doors (alignment, latches, drafts)
- Stairs, railings, and flooring safety
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- Plumbing
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- Water pressure and drainage
- Leaks under sinks, showers, and toilets
- Hot water heater installation
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- Electrical
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- Outlets, switches, and fixtures (proper function)
- Circuit breaker panel and wiring safety
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
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- HVAC Systems
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- Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning performance
- Proper air circulation
- Thermostat functionality
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- Attic and Basement
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- Insulation, ventilation, and any signs of moisture
- Structural issues (cracks, leaks)
When Should You Get a Home Inspection?
The timing of your home inspection depends on whether you purchased a pre-construction home or a newly built resale property.
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Pre-Construction Home Inspection
If you bought your home during the pre-construction phase, you can schedule an inspection during the Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI). This is conducted by a third-party company hired by the builder, but bringing your own independent home inspector ensures an unbiased evaluation.
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New Build Resale Home Inspection
If you purchased a newly built home from a previous owner, you can include a home inspection as part of your offer conditions. This allows you to negotiate repairs or back out of the agreement if significant issues arise. Even if you’ve already moved in, an inspection can still identify hidden defects before your builder’s warranty expires.
Understanding the Ontario Tarion Warranty
If you’re buying a new build in Ontario, your home is covered by the Tarion Warranty Program, which provides protection against defects in materials, workmanship, and structural integrity.
- 1 year – General defects in materials and workmanship
- 2 years – Electrical, plumbing, heating, and building envelope issues
- 7 years – Major structural defects
This warranty is transferable, meaning that if you purchase a newly built home from someone else, any remaining coverage applies to you as the new homeowner. However, warranty claims must be filed within specific deadlines, or they may not be covered.
How to Choose the Right Home Inspector
Not all home inspectors have experience with new builds, so it’s important to choose wisely. When selecting an inspector, consider their certifications, experience, and training. Although there is no standard regulatory authority for home inspectors in Ontario, organizations like the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors (OAHI) provide recognized certifications. Ask about their background, where they were trained, and how many years they have been working in the field. Specifically, ensure they have experience inspecting newly constructed homes, as these require different assessments compared to older homes.