Buying a Brand-New Home in Florida? Why You Still Need an Inspection

New doesn't mean perfect

A new home passes the city's code inspections, so many buyers assume there's nothing left to find. But code inspectors check that the home meets the minimum code at certain stages of construction, often on a tight schedule. They aren't working for you, and they don't check the finish work, the details or everything that happens after they leave.

Builders work fast with many different subcontractors. Mistakes happen, and it's much easier to get them fixed before you close or while your warranty is still active.

What we commonly find in new homes

Missing or uneven insulation in the attic, found with thermal imaging.

Roof and window flashing details that weren't finished.

Unsealed holes where pipes and wires go through walls.

Grading and drainage that sends water toward the house instead of away from it.

Outlets wired incorrectly, or GFCI protection missing.

AC drain lines without proper slope, and incomplete finish work like doors, cabinets, caulking and paint.

Inspection before closing

Book an independent inspection before your final walkthrough with the builder. The report becomes your punch list, so the builder can fix the items before you close and move in.

The 11-month warranty inspection

Many builders include a warranty on workmanship for the first year. Some problems only show up after you've lived in the home for a few months, like settling cracks, leaks, doors that stick and AC issues. An inspection about a month before your warranty ends documents these, so you can submit the list to the builder while they still have to fix them. Check your warranty paperwork for the exact dates and what it covers.

Townhomes and single-family homes

We inspect new construction townhomes and single-family homes across Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach. You get a report with photos, usually the same day, that you can send straight to the builder. See our new construction and warranty inspections page for details.