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A multi-phase inspection involves separate inspections performed at different stages of construction. While these inspections do require collaboration with the builder, most quality home builders are happy to welcome third-party inspections.
Inspecting a home at specific stages during construction allows the inspector to inspect elements that would otherwise be impossible, or prohibitively expensive, to examine. These include the components of the structure and systems that are normally hidden behind the walls such as electrical wiring, plumbing, and more. Mistakes made in these areas could result in costly repairs down the road, long after the builder’s warranty has expired. It is best to catch them now — when they are easy to access and cheap to fix.
As the name suggests, the pre-pour inspection takes place after the foundation has been prepared but before the concrete has been poured. At this point, the various components of the foundation, including the reinforcement materials, are visible and can be compared to the original plans. The electrical grounding and plumbing drainage system are also accessible.
Once the concrete has been poured, the opportunity to inspect the foundation is lost. The pre-pour inspection should be scheduled, in coordination with the builder, at least a couple of days before the pour date to ensure that any issues can be addressed.
The pre-drywall (sheetrock) inspection, sometimes called a framing inspection, takes place after the exterior cladding, windows, and roofing material have been installed, along with “roughing in” of the framing, plumbing, and electrical wiring. At this point, the walls have not yet been covered with sheetrock, thus granting the inspector access to the entire structure as well as plumbing, electrical, fire blocking, and HVAC systems that are normally hidden.
Some common problems that are discovered during a Phase 2 Inspection include improper cutting or boring of load-bearing studs and improperly installed window flashings.
A full home inspection should be performed at the final stage of construction, which includes all major systems of the home. At this point, everything in the house should be in place and working correctly. For this phase, the price would be that of a standard home inspection.
SHA HOME INSPECTIONS provides new construction phase inspections in New York City including Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Bronx, Staten Island, Long Island, Westchester County, and Sulfolk County as well as areas in Connecticut. Not sure if that's you? Give us a call at (917) 769-8522 or send us an email.