Buying a newly built home comes with a sense of security—everything is new, up to code, and backed by a builder’s warranty. But even brand-new homes can have hidden issues that don’t appear immediately. That’s where 11-month warranty inspections come in. This inspection is designed for homeowners approaching the end of their one-year builder warranty. It offers a final chance to catch defects before repairs become the homeowner’s financial responsibility.
What the Inspection Covers
An 11-month warranty inspection is a full home inspection that evaluates the same major systems and components reviewed during a standard pre-purchase inspection. This typically includes:
- Roofing and exterior
- HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems
- Attic insulation and ventilation
- Interior walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and doors
- Foundation and grading
- Installed appliances and fixtures
The purpose is to confirm that everything is functioning properly and to identify any issues that may have developed during the first year of occupancy.
Why It’s Important
New construction doesn’t mean flawless construction. In many cases, defects begin to appear only after the home experiences seasonal changes, such as temperature shifts or humidity fluctuations that affect building materials.
Small cracks in the foundation, ventilation problems, roof leaks, or HVAC issues often emerge months after move-in. An 11-month inspection helps document these concerns while the builder is still responsible for correcting them.
Understanding Builder Warranty Deadlines
Most builders provide a one-year limited warranty covering materials and workmanship. Some systems, like structural components or roofing, may have longer-term coverage, but many common issues are only covered for the first 12 months.
Scheduling the inspection during the 10th or 11th month gives homeowners time to review the report, file warranty claims, and coordinate any needed repairs before that coverage ends.
Peace of Mind for New Homeowners
An 11-month warranty inspection gives homeowners peace of mind. It ensures that unresolved problems are addressed by the builder, not out of pocket. It also creates a formal record of the home’s condition at the close of the warranty period, which can be useful in future resale or repair planning.
For anyone living in a recently built home, this inspection is a smart final step to safeguard your investment and hold the builder accountable for their work.
N8 Inspections offers comprehensive home inspection services to homebuyers and homeowners in Baltimore, Maryland, and surrounding areas. Contact us to schedule an inspection.