A Second Set of Eyes That Works Only for You
Many different trades build new homes fast. An independent inspection at key stages finds workmanship issues before drywall hides them and before your builder’s warranty runs out. Buying? Also, see our buyer’s home inspection.
- Pre-pour foundation inspection
- Pre-drywall framing and systems review
- Final walk-through inspection before closing
- 11-month builder warranty inspection
- Clear punch list for your builder
A new construction inspection is an independent inspection of a newly built home at key stages: before the foundation is poured, before drywall, at the final walk-through before closing and before the builder’s one-year warranty expires. Lee’s Home Inspections helps new-home buyers in Louisville and surrounding Kentucky counties catch builder oversights while they are still easy to correct.
New Does Not Mean Perfect
Many different trades work on a new home on a tight schedule, and even good builders make mistakes. Local code inspections check for minimum requirements, not overall workmanship. An independent inspection gives you a second set of eyes that works only for you, not the builder.
New Construction Inspection Phases
Pre-Pour Foundation Inspection
Performed after excavation, forms and reinforcement are in place but before concrete is poured. Lee checks the footings and forms, visible reinforcing steel, drainage provisions and anything the concrete will permanently cover.
Pre-Drywall Inspection
Performed after framing, rough plumbing, rough electrical and ductwork are installed, but before insulation and drywall. Lee checks framing, fastening, window and door installation, visible plumbing and electrical rough-ins, ductwork and signs of water intrusion. Once drywall closes the walls, these components are impossible to see.
Final Walk-Through Inspection
Performed shortly before closing, when the home is complete. This is a full inspection of the finished home, including the roof, exterior grading and drainage, foundation, electrical, plumbing, water heater, heating and cooling, attic insulation and ventilation, interior finishes and appliances. Findings become a clear punch list for your builder.
11-Month Builder Warranty Inspection
Most builders provide a one-year warranty. Around month 11, Lee inspects the home again to identify issues that have developed as the home settled and went through a full cycle of seasons, such as drywall cracks, doors that no longer latch, drainage problems or roof and flashing concerns, so you can submit them while they are still covered.
Common New Construction Inspection Findings
- Improper grading or downspouts that send water toward the foundation
- Missing or damaged roof flashing and incomplete shingle installation
- Electrical outlets with open grounds, reversed polarity or missing GFCI protection
- Disconnected or crushed ductwork in attics and crawlspaces
- Insufficient attic insulation or blocked ventilation
- Plumbing leaks under sinks and at fixtures
- Doors and windows that stick, do not latch or are poorly sealed
Growing Communities, Growing Demand
New subdivisions continue to expand across the region, from Oldham and Shelby Counties to Bullitt, Spencer and Hardin Counties. Whether you are building a custom home or buying in a new development, Lee’s Home Inspections can inspect at each stage. Lee answers calls and texts 7 days a week from 7am to 10pm, so it is easy to coordinate with your builder’s schedule. See the full list of areas we serve, or pair your inspection with radon testing. Many buyers schedule a new construction inspection before drywall and again before closing.
A new construction inspection adds to local code inspections, and the InterNACHI Standards of Practice describe what a home inspection covers.
Have questions first? Browse our home inspection FAQ, meet Lee Wiard, or see all home inspection services.
At a Glance
- Typical time: 2 to 4 hours
- Report typically within 24 working hours
- 23+ years · 7,000+ inspections
- Louisville + 9 Kentucky counties
- Call or text (502) 376-0856
A New Construction Inspection at Every Critical Stage
Footings, forms and reinforcement before concrete is poured.
Framing, rough plumbing, electrical and ductwork before walls close.
A full inspection of the finished home before closing.
Find defects before the builder’s warranty expires.
How a New Construction Inspection Works
From your first call to your final question, every step is simple and clear so you can focus on your move.
Call or text Lee at (502) 376-0856, or send a request online. In addition, Lee answers calls and texts 7 days a week.
Lee inspects the home from top to bottom, usually in 2 to 4 hours. You are welcome to attend and ask questions.
A clear, photo-rich digital report with a summary of key findings, ready to share with your agent.
Questions after the inspection? Call Lee. He is happy to walk you through any finding in the report.
You May Also Need
Inspections and tests that pair well with this service. Request your inspection online any day of the week.
A complete roof-to-foundation inspection before you buy.
48-hour continuous radon monitoring.
A close look at your roof, flashing, gutters and attic.
New Construction Inspection FAQ
Why inspect a brand-new home?
Even reputable builders rely on many subcontractors, and municipal code inspections focus on minimum requirements. An independent inspector works only for you and often finds installation and workmanship issues that are easiest to fix before closing. Explore all home inspection services. Buying? See our buyer’s home inspection. Buying? See our buyer’s home inspection.
What is a pre-drywall inspection?
A pre-drywall inspection happens after framing, rough plumbing, rough electrical and HVAC are installed but before insulation and drywall cover them. It is the only chance to see these components before they are hidden. Selling? Start with a pre-listing inspection.
What is an 11-month warranty inspection?
Most builders offer a one-year warranty. An inspection around month 11 identifies defects that have developed since move-in, such as settling cracks, drainage problems or roof issues, so you can submit them before the warranty expires. More answers are in our home inspection FAQ.
Will my builder allow an independent inspection?
Most builders allow it, but policies vary. Check your purchase agreement and let your builder know when the inspection is scheduled. Meet Lee Wiard, owner and lead inspector.
Do you inspect in new subdivisions outside Louisville?
Yes. We inspect new construction throughout Jefferson, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer, Bullitt, Hardin, Nelson, Henry and Trimble Counties.
Book Your New Construction Inspection
Call or text Lee at (502) 376-0856 or request your inspection online. Calls answered 7 days a week, 7am to 10pm.