Buying a new home is an exciting experience, but it comes with its own unique set of challenges. After all, you want everything to be perfect — the walls, the floors, the plumbing, the electrical systems. While new homes are often perceived as free of issues, this assumption is far from the reality. Even brand-new homes can have hidden defects that may not be apparent during a typical walk-through.
At Hipwex, we believe that new home inspections are just as essential as those for older homes. While a freshly built house may look flawless on the surface, it’s still crucial to get it professionally inspected to ensure everything is up to code, functioning properly, and free of construction defects. In this blog, we’ll walk you through why a new home inspection is essential, what it includes, and how it can save you from future headaches and unexpected costs.
1. New Doesn’t Always Mean Perfect
It’s easy to assume that a newly constructed home is free from problems — after all, everything is brand new! But the reality is that even newly built homes can suffer from construction defects, poorly executed installations, or overlooked details. Here are a few examples:
Improperly installed electrical wiring can be dangerous and cause short circuits or fires.
Shoddy plumbing work can lead to leaks or water pressure issues that become major problems over time.
Poor insulation can result in heating and cooling inefficiencies, leading to high utility bills.
Foundational issues may not show up immediately but could manifest later as cracks in the walls or uneven floors.
Even reputable builders sometimes make mistakes. That’s why it’s important to bring in an expert to check for issues that may not be visible at first glance.
2. Catch Issues Early Before They Become Costly Problems
A home inspection for a new build can help uncover issues that might go unnoticed until they get worse. If left unchecked, even minor construction defects can lead to expensive repairs. For example:
Poorly sealed windows can lead to drafts, moisture buildup, and ultimately mold growth.
Improperly installed roofing can result in leaks that may damage the ceiling and walls.
When you have an inspection done, you can address these issues early — either by asking the builder to fix them before you move in, or by adjusting the price to account for future repairs.
At Hipwex, we ensure that our inspectors carefully examine every aspect of your new home, identifying issues early on to save you from future headaches and hefty repair bills.
3. Warranties May Not Cover Everything
It’s true that many new homes come with a builder’s warranty, which covers certain defects and issues that may arise within a specified period (typically 1-2 years for materials and workmanship, and 5-10 years for structural issues). However, this warranty may not cover:
Cosmetic defects, such as chipped paint or scratches.
Non-structural damage, such as problems with appliances or minor plumbing issues.
Delayed or hidden issues that may not manifest until after you’ve moved in, such as water damage or shifting foundations.
A home inspection is a way to ensure that any potential problems that might not be covered by the builder’s warranty are identified before you finalize your purchase. Knowing these issues upfront allows you to make an informed decision and negotiate for repairs or a price reduction.
4. Building Codes May Have Been Ignored
Even new homes need to be built to meet certain Canadian building codes. These codes ensure that homes are safe, energy-efficient, and structurally sound. However, some builders may overlook or rush certain aspects of construction, leading to violations of local building codes. These issues can include:
Electrical wiring that doesn't meet safety standards.
Plumbing installations that fail to meet code regulations.
Insufficient fireproofing or inadequate insulation.
During a new home inspection, a certified inspector will check that the home complies with the latest building codes, ensuring that you won’t face costly problems down the road, or even worse, health and safety risks.
5. Your New Home Might Not Be as Energy Efficient as You Think
Energy efficiency is an important factor when buying a home, especially in Canada, where winters can be harsh, and summers can be sweltering. A properly built home should have excellent insulation, energy-efficient windows, and a properly sealed envelope to keep your energy bills in check.
However, even in newly constructed homes, there can be energy inefficiencies due to:
Improper insulation in walls, attics, or basements.
Air leaks around windows and doors that can increase your heating and cooling costs.
HVAC systems that are not properly balanced or installed.
An inspection from Hipwex will help identify these issues and give you the peace of mind that your home will be energy-efficient, saving you money in the long run.
6. Safety Hazards You Might Not See
When you’re walking through a newly built home, you might focus on how it looks and feels, but it’s important to remember that some issues can pose serious safety risks. Even new homes can have safety hazards like:
Faulty wiring that could lead to electrical fires.
Gas leaks that may not be detectable until the system is used for the first time.
Improper ventilation, which can lead to poor indoor air quality and increase the risk of mold or mildew.
Structural defects, such as weak framing or foundation issues that may make the house unsafe over time.
A professional inspection will check for all of these hazards, ensuring that your home is both safe and secure for you and your family.
7. What’s Included in a New Home Inspection?
At Hipwex, we offer a comprehensive inspection service for new homes, which includes checking:
Exterior: Roof, siding, windows, doors, grading, and drainage systems.
Interior: Walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and doors.
Plumbing: Pipes, fixtures, hot water heaters, and water pressure.
Electrical Systems: Outlets, circuits, panels, wiring, and grounding.
HVAC Systems: Heating, cooling, and ventilation.
Safety Hazards: Carbon monoxide detectors, smoke alarms, mold, or other environmental risks.
Energy Efficiency: Insulation, air leaks, and the overall energy performance of the home.
8. How Much Does a New Home Inspection Cost in Canada?
The cost of a home inspection for a newly built property in Canada typically ranges between $400 and $700, depending on the size of the home and location. While this might seem like an additional expense, it’s a small price to pay for the protection and peace of mind it provides. Compared to the cost of potential repairs or future issues that could arise, the cost of an inspection is minimal.
At Hipwex, we offer affordable pricing without compromising on quality. Our inspections are designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of the condition of your new home.
9. Choosing the Right Home Inspector for Your New Build
Choosing a qualified, experienced home inspector is crucial for ensuring the success of your inspection. Here’s what to look for:
Certification: Ensure that the inspector is certified by a recognized Canadian body like the Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors (CAHPI).
Experience with New Builds: Make sure the inspector has experience specifically with new construction and understands what to look for in newer homes.
Clear and Detailed Reports: The inspector should provide a clear, comprehensive report with photos and recommendations.
Reputation: Check reviews and references from previous clients to ensure the inspector has a good track record.
At Hipwex, we pride ourselves on providing detailed, transparent reports that will help you make the best decisions for your home.
Conclusion: Don’t Skip the New Home Inspection
While a brand-new home may seem perfect, it's always better to be safe than sorry. Even new construction can have hidden issues that might affect your safety, energy efficiency, or long-term costs. A professional new home inspection from Hipwex ensures that your home is free of hidden problems and meets all safety and quality standards.
By investing in a thorough inspection, you can protect yourself from unexpected expenses and ensure that your new home is truly move-in ready.
