New construction homes are booming across the Triangle.
A report from Realtor.com ranks the Raleigh area among the top 10 metros in the country for new home construction, but new doesn’t always mean perfect.
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“We like to say homes are built by humans, and mistakes happen,” explained Patrick Madigan, owner of Madigan Realty Co.
One of the biggest mistakes a buyer can make is skipping an independent inspection, according to Madigan.
“An inspector might do two or three inspections in a day, whereas a county inspector might have to cover a dozen homes,” Madigan said. “An independent inspector will find everything they can for you. That’s their job.”
Here’s what buyers should check and ask about:
- Start with the bones of the home. Look for cracks in roof trusses, check framing and support beams, and inspect the foundation or crawl space for moisture or mold.
- Next, check the systems that keep the home running, including HVAC, plumbing, electrical and insulation. If possible, tour the home before drywall goes up. It’s your only chance to see inside the walls and evaluate how ductwork, plumbing and wiring are installed.
If issues are found during the process, buyers should ask the builder to make repairs before closing. Madigan recalls one case where an inspector discovered mold before anyone had moved in.
“When they got into the crawl space, they realized it was full of mold,” he said. “It wasn’t a cheap fix, but it had to be addressed before closing, and my buyer got a mold-free home.”
If problems arise after purchase, experts say to document everything. Take photos, keep records and review any warranties or agreements with the builder.
If issues are identified early enough, the builder may be responsible for repairs. If the builder is not responsive, homeowners can file a complaint with the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors.