One-Year Builder Warranty Inspections – What You Need to Know

One-Year Builder Warranty Inspections

Protecting Your Investment with a 1-Year Warranty Home Inspection

Buying a newly constructed home is exciting, but even brand-new homes can have hidden issues. That’s why one-year builder warranty inspections are crucial. These inspections help homeowners identify problems while the builder’s warranty is still in effect, allowing for repairs at no cost before coverage expires.

If you’re a new homeowner, here’s what you need to know about builder warranty inspections and why they’re an essential step in protecting your investment.

What Is a 1-Year Warranty Home Inspection?

A 1-year warranty home inspection is a professional evaluation of your home conducted around the 11-month mark after moving in. The goal is to catch issues while they are still covered by the builder’s warranty.

During this inspection, a certified home inspector assesses key systems, including:

  • Structural components (foundation, walls, roofing)
  • Plumbing systems (leaks, water pressure, drainage)
  • Electrical systems (wiring, outlets, breaker panels)
  • HVAC system (heating, cooling, ventilation)
  • Windows, doors, and insulation (energy efficiency and air leaks)

Once the inspection is complete, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining any defects, allowing you to submit repair requests to your builder before the warranty expires.

Why Is a 1-Year Warranty Home Inspection Important?

1. Uncover Hidden Issues

Even well-built homes can have problems that take months to appear. Minor cosmetic flaws may mask structural concerns, plumbing leaks, or faulty electrical work. A warranty inspection helps catch these issues early.

2. Save Money on Repairs

Builders typically cover defects for the first year after construction. If you wait too long, you might end up paying out-of-pocket for issues that should have been repaired under warranty.

3. Ensure Your Home’s Safety

An inspection can reveal potential safety hazards, including:

  • Improperly wired electrical systems
  • Gas or carbon monoxide leaks
  • Water intrusion that could lead to mold growth

By addressing these concerns before the warranty expires, you protect your home and family.

4. Strengthen Your Negotiating Power

If your builder disputes certain repairs, a professional inspection report gives you leverage. Builders are more likely to honor repair requests when presented with documented evidence from a certified home inspector.

5. Protect Your Home’s Value

A properly maintained home retains its value better. Fixing issues early prevents long-term damage, which can be costly if left unaddressed.


What to Expect During a Builder Warranty Inspection

A home inspector will conduct a non-invasive evaluation of your property, looking for:

✅ Cracks in walls, ceilings, or foundations
✅ Improperly installed windows, doors, or siding
✅ HVAC inefficiencies or ductwork leaks
✅ Electrical panel issues or missing GFCI outlets
✅ Roof defects or inadequate attic ventilation
✅ Plumbing leaks or water heater concerns

After the inspection, you’ll receive a detailed report with descriptions and photos of any issues. You can submit this report to your builder and request necessary repairs before the end of the warranty period.


Why Choose Batten to Beam for Your Builder Warranty Inspection?

At Batten to Beam Inspections, we specialize in thorough and unbiased home inspections to help homeowners get the most from their builder’s warranty. Here’s why we’re the right choice:

Certified & Experienced Inspectors – We know what to look for in new construction homes
Detailed Reports – Easy-to-read reports with clear photos and repair recommendations
Customer-Focused Approach – We work with homeowners to ensure all concerns are addressed before warranty expiration
Advanced Inspection Tools – We use thermal imaging and moisture meters to detect hidden issues

 Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late! Schedule your 1-year warranty home inspection with Batten to Beam today and make sure your builder covers necessary repairs before your warranty expires.

📞 Call us at (484) 573-7194 to book your inspection!

Richard Graff

Richard Graff

Residential and commercial inspector

Richard returned to the Southeast Pennsylvania area in 2016 after spending 20+ years in Texas. Interested in changing careers and after much research he started his training in Home Inspections and has been a residential home inspector since 2017 and a commercial inspector since 2021. Richard is a consumer of information and enjoys learning about inspecting properties far in excess of the standard inspection SOP and using that knowledge to help you make decisions.

Professional Home Inspection Services

Inspecting the properties for more than 30 years