Stage 1: Pre-drywall inspection
- Schedule after framing and major rough-ins but before drywall closes the walls
- Review visible framing, trusses, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, moisture, and related accessible work
- Confirm the builder's notice and access requirements in advance
- Document findings and submit them through the builder's required process
Stage 2: Final inspection
- Inspect as close to substantial completion as the builder permits and ideally before the final walkthrough
- Review functional systems, visible finishes, doors and windows, appliances, fixtures, drainage, exterior conditions, and accessible attic or crawl areas
- Separate cosmetic punch-list items from functional or safety concerns
- Keep written confirmation of open items and the builder's planned resolution
Stage 3: 11-month warranty inspection
- Schedule before the builder's applicable workmanship warranty deadline
- Look for settling-related cracks, leaks, HVAC performance issues, drainage problems, doors or windows that moved, and other conditions that developed after occupancy
- Submit warranty items before the relevant deadline using the builder's required notice process
- Keep photos, reports, emails, work orders, and completion confirmations together
Documentation matters
Inspection reports are most useful when paired with good transaction documentation. Keep the signed contract, plans, selections, change orders, builder emails, inspection reports, walkthrough lists, warranty submissions, and repair confirmations organized in one place.
Inspection scope, access rights, and warranty coverage vary by builder, contract, jurisdiction, and property. Use qualified local professionals for the specific home.
Expert review
Reviewed by Scott Russo, a real estate broker with 20+ years in the Charlotte market, and Nicole Russo, a licensed real estate agent and co-founder who developed New Home Hero's agent-vetting and matching system. Read our editorial standards.
This content is for general educational purposes and does not constitute legal, tax, lending, inspection, engineering, or brokerage advice. Builder policies, contracts, compensation, inspection access, and applicable law vary by builder, community, market, and state. Agency relationships are established through written agreements with the selected brokerage.