Inspection on New Home

[Hector R.]

When buying a new home and the plan is to rent it out, would you perform an inspection? One answer that I've heard is "no". The home is new and so it already comes with warranties. It seems like the best option would be to perform the inspection at around 10 months, just two months before the 1 year warranty on some of the items expires. Does this make sense? It seems logical since most of the main issues should come out within that time frame and the builder should be responsible for fixing them. What do you recommend?

[Chris T.]

@Hector R.

Always do a home inspection before you close/buy, unless your plan is to gut and flip it.

Since you're buying a new house, (even if it's meant to rent), your home inspector will probably find issues. If it's major, make sure the builder fix it, or put it on the punch list to fix it. Make sure it's in writing that it will be fixed before you close on the house.

You can of course do another inspection in the 10th month period to take advantage of the 1 year warranty. And also to confirm the builder fixed the issues found in the first inspection as well. 

And if you're renting it, your renter will probably let you know of any issues as well. Keep in mind some of the wear and tear is probably not going to be covered by the warranty. Unless it's specified in your contract.