Don’t Skip Your Home Inspection
Why You Shouldn’t Skip an Inspection on a New Build in Austin
The Myth of “Brand New = Problem-Free”
It’s easy to assume that a brand-new home doesn’t need a home inspection. After all, everything is new — foundation, roof, HVAC, plumbing — so what could possibly be wrong?
The truth: even new homes in Austin can have hidden defects that cost you thousands down the road if left unchecked.
Why New Homes Still Have Issues
Homebuilders in Central Texas are working fast to keep up with demand. Crews are often on tight timelines, and multiple contractors work on different parts of the house. This rush can lead to:
Missed details (like improperly sealed windows or gaps in insulation)
Shortcuts (such as undersized gutters or unstrapped water heaters)
Code oversights (just because it “passed city inspection” doesn’t mean it’s flawless)
Common Problems We Find in New Builds
Here are a few issues we’ve uncovered during inspections on homes less than a year old in the Austin area:
Foundation cracks or poor grading – Central Texas clay soils are notorious for movement. If drainage isn’t done right, problems show up fast.
Roof flashing errors – Even small mistakes around chimneys or valleys can lead to leaks.
HVAC duct leaks – Poorly sealed ducts waste energy and leave rooms hot in summer.
Plumbing issues – Loose fittings under sinks, slow drains, or water heaters not properly vented.
Insulation gaps – Whole sections of attic or wall space missed by contractors.
Why Builder Warranties Aren’t Enough
Most builders provide a 1-year warranty. That sounds reassuring, but here’s the catch: it’s up to you to prove the defect before that warranty expires.
If you don’t get a professional inspection, you may not notice a problem until year two or three — when it’s 100% your responsibility (and your repair bill).
The Value of a Professional Inspection
A professional inspector doesn’t just glance around. We test outlets, crawl attics, run HVAC systems, check drainage slopes, and more.
Catching issues early means you can hand the builder a repair list instead of footing the bill later.
Final Thoughts
Buying a brand-new home in Austin is exciting — but don’t let “new” fool you into skipping an inspection. Builders aim to deliver quality homes, but mistakes happen, and they happen often. A home inspection gives you peace of mind, protects your investment, and ensures your dream home really is move-in ready.
👉 Ready to safeguard your new home? Schedule your inspection with Precision Property Inspections today.
