Why Even New Construction Homes in Canton, Cumming, Alpharetta & Woodstock, GA Still Need a Home Inspection in 2025
Don’t Assume Your New Home Is Problem-Free
Hey there — I’m David Lelak, owner of IHI Home Inspections and your trusted home inspector for Canton, Cumming, Alpharetta, and Woodstock, GA.
It’s a common belief that new construction homes are flawless because everything is brand new — but after performing thousands of inspections over the past 19 years, I can tell you that’s simply not true.
Even brand-new homes can have issues lurking behind the walls, under the floors, or in the attic. Builders work with tight timelines and multiple subcontractors, which sometimes means small mistakes can slip through the cracks — mistakes that can cost you thousands if not caught early.
That’s why scheduling a new construction home inspection before your final walk-through (or before your builder warranty expires) is one of the smartest investments you can make.
🏠 Why New Construction Homes Still Need Professional Inspections
Even when your home is fresh off the builder’s lot, it doesn’t mean it’s flawless.
I often find issues that can affect safety, performance, and long-term durability — the kind of problems most homeowners won’t notice until it’s too late.
Here’s what I frequently uncover during new home inspections in Woodstock, Cumming, Alpharetta, and Canton:
1. Moisture Problems in Crawlspaces and Basements
New homes aren’t immune to moisture.
I’ve inspected new properties where crawlspaces already had water pooling, improper vapor barriers, or venting that allowed humidity to collect.
Excess moisture leads to mold growth, warped framing, and insulation damage — all costly repairs that can start within the first year.
My infrared moisture scanning detects hidden leaks and condensation spots before they become serious issues.
2. Electrical Safety and Grounding Issues
One of the most common discoveries I make in new homes? Electrical oversights.
I’ve found missing junction box covers, ungrounded outlets, mislabeled breakers, and loose wiring — even in luxury builds.
Your safety depends on a properly installed electrical system. That’s why I meticulously check for:
Secure wire connections
Functional GFCI and AFCI outlets
Proper grounding at the main panel
Correct labeling for breakers and circuits
3. HVAC & Ductwork Deficiencies
Proper airflow makes a huge difference in comfort and efficiency — especially in Georgia’s humid climate.
I inspect duct systems to ensure they’re properly supported, sealed, and connected.
Poor ductwork can cause:
Uneven room temperatures
Higher energy bills
Increased humidity and dust
HVAC strain and early system failure
In 2025, with stricter efficiency standards and smart-home systems, airflow and insulation must meet performance codes. My inspections help ensure they do.
4. Signs of Wildlife or Pest Entry
You’d be surprised how often I find evidence of wildlife — even in brand-new neighborhoods. Gaps near crawlspace vents, attic soffits, or foundation edges can become open invitations for pests.
Rodents, snakes, and insects can quickly make themselves at home and damage insulation, wiring, and HVAC systems.
A quick inspection before move-in prevents a big headache later.
5. Structural & Drainage Oversights
Sometimes it’s the small details — missing flashing, uneven grading, or misaligned gutters — that cause the biggest long-term damage.
If water doesn’t drain away from your foundation properly, it can lead to cracks, settling, or moisture intrusion in as little as one rainy season.
As part of your inspection, I check grading, downspouts, roof valleys, and foundation edges to ensure proper drainage flow.
When Should You Schedule a New Construction Home Inspection?
There are three ideal times to schedule a professional inspection for your newly built home:
Pre-Drywall Inspection: Before the walls are closed, allowing a full view of framing, wiring, and plumbing.
Final Walk-Through Inspection: Before you close on your home, to identify any defects while the builder is still responsible for repairs.
11-Month Builder Warranty Inspection: Just before your one-year warranty expires, to ensure hidden problems are covered before your coverage ends.
Why Choose IHI Home Inspections for Your New Home
As your local Canton and Woodstock home inspector, I take pride in providing a level of detail that helps protect your investment for years to come.
Here’s what you can expect with IHI Home Inspections:
Next-day digital reports with photos & recommendations
Infrared thermal imaging for hidden defects
Comprehensive roof, attic, foundation, and electrical checks
90-Day, MoldSafe, SewerGard, and Platinum Roof warranties available
19+ years of trusted experience and over 4,800 inspections completed
Your home might be brand new — but peace of mind never goes out of style.
Protect Your Investment Before the Warranty Runs Out
If you’ve recently bought or built a home in Canton, Cumming, Alpharetta, or Woodstock, it’s the perfect time to schedule a new construction or builder warranty inspection.
I’ll walk your roof, crawl your crawlspace, and inspect every system so you know exactly where your new home stands — no assumptions, no surprises.
✅ Book Your Inspection Today
Let’s make sure your charming home isn’t hiding something costly.
📞 Call me at 404-788-2581
🖱️ Or schedule online: ihihomeinspections.com
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