New and rebuilt homes
New construction inspection
A brand-new house has had many different trades through it. A new construction inspection is an independent, visual look at the finished home on your behalf, before you move in.
Who it's for
You're buying a newly built home, or you've rebuilt and want a second set of eyes before the final walkthrough with your builder.
Around Santa Rosa that includes many homes rebuilt after the 2017 Tubbs fire, and newer neighborhoods across Sonoma County.
From framing to finish
What's covered
- OutsideGrading and drainage, roof covering and flashing, gutters and downspouts, siding, trim, windows, doors and exterior penetrations.
- AtticInsulation coverage, attic ventilation and the roof framing as seen from below.
- SystemsWater heater, plumbing fixtures, the electrical panel and a sample of outlets including GFCI and AFCI protection where present, heating and cooling equipment.
- InsideDoors and windows that open and latch, stairs and railings, walls, ceilings and floors.
Finishing details
What you get
- Report within 24 hours.
- A written report you can bring to your builder's walkthrough or warranty process.
- Notes on anything that should be looked at again, corrected or explained by the builder.
Outside the new house
Honest notes
A city or county building inspection checks code items at set stages for the permit. A home inspection is a different look, on your behalf, and it isn't a code inspection.
Title 24 field verification is a separate service tied to the permit. Michael is also a California ECC Rater; see the Title 24 page if your project needs verification.
Need an inspection at a particular stage, or something specific checked? Customized inspection services are available; call to talk it through.
Home inspections follow the InterNACHI Standards of Practice: a visual, non-invasive look at the readily accessible parts of the house.
Questions
Why inspect a brand-new house?
Because new houses are built by many people working fast, and small things get missed: a downspout that drains toward the foundation, an outlet with no power, insulation that was disturbed after it went in. It's easier to raise them before you move in.
When should the inspection happen?
Usually once the house is finished and before your final walkthrough with the builder. If you're thinking of another stage, call to talk about timing.
Is this the same as Title 24 testing?
No. Title 24 verifications are required by the permit for certain installed measures, and the results feed the project's compliance documents. A new construction inspection is for you, the owner or buyer. Michael does both; ask which you need.
Related services
Free instant quote
Get a free instant quote for any of the inspections or energy services on this site.
Rather talk it through? Call (707) 533-7579, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, or email [email protected].