Warranty Inspections: When & Why to Do Them
Buying a new home or property is an exciting milestone, and often, the builder or developer will offer a warranty on the property. While this warranty provides peace of mind, it’s important to know when and why to schedule warranty inspections to ensure your investment is protected. Here’s what you need to know about warranty inspections and why they’re crucial for homeowners.
What is a Warranty Inspection?
A warranty inspection is a check conducted within a certain period after purchasing a new property, typically during the warranty period. The inspection is designed to identify defects or issues that are covered by the builder’s warranty. These inspections can help address any problems that may arise after moving in, ensuring that they’re fixed before the warranty expires.
When Should You Do a Warranty Inspection?
- End of the First Year
Many new home warranties are valid for one year, and the end of the first year is a critical time to conduct a warranty inspection. This inspection ensures that any defects, damages, or issues that may have appeared in the first year are addressed while they are still covered under warranty.
- Mid-Warranty Inspection
Some warranties last longer than a year, often extending to 2 or 5 years for specific systems, such as roofing or plumbing. A mid-warranty inspection, typically done around the 2-3 year mark, can help identify issues that may not have been apparent right away. This early inspection gives you time to report and resolve any problems before they escalate.
- At Regular Intervals for Longer Warranties
If your property has a warranty that lasts for 10 years or longer, such as for major structural elements, it’s wise to schedule inspections periodically throughout the warranty period. This helps ensure that issues with major systems, like foundations or framing, are spotted and resolved promptly.
Why Are Warranty Inspections Important?
- Identifying Hidden Defects
Some defects may not be immediately visible after moving in. Issues such as settling foundations, cracks in walls, or faulty plumbing can take time to manifest. A warranty inspection helps identify these hidden defects before the warranty expires, giving you the opportunity to get repairs or replacements at no cost to you.
- Protecting Your Investment
A home or property is one of the most significant investments most people make. Warranty inspections protect this investment by ensuring that any defects or damages are repaired promptly. Catching issues early can save you money in the long run by preventing costly repairs that may arise from overlooked problems.
- Ensuring the Builder’s Responsibility
Builders are legally required to fix issues that fall within the scope of the warranty. Regular warranty inspections give you a formal opportunity to assess whether the builder has met their obligations. If problems are detected, you can hold the builder accountable to make the necessary repairs.
- Maintaining Property Value
Neglecting issues covered under warranty can lead to a decrease in your property’s value. Taking proactive steps to fix any defects will not only improve the overall quality and safety of your home but also help maintain its resale value if you decide to sell in the future.
- Avoiding Expiry of Warranty Coverage
Waiting too long to identify issues might result in the expiration of the warranty coverage. Warranty inspections done at appropriate times ensure that you’re making use of the protection offered by the warranty and prevent issues from going unaddressed due to timing.
What Do Inspectors Look For During Warranty Inspections?
- Structural Issues
Inspectors will check for cracks, settling, or any signs of foundation problems that could affect the safety and stability of the property. - Plumbing and Electrical Systems
Inspectors will test the plumbing, including pipes, faucets, and water pressure, as well as the electrical system, including outlets, switches, and circuit breakers, to ensure they’re in working order. - Roof and Exterior
The roof will be examined for leaks, damage, or wear and tear, as well as the siding, windows, and doors to ensure proper sealing and insulation. - Interior Features
The interior of the home will be checked for issues with flooring, walls, ceilings, windows, and doors, including checking for leaks, moisture, and cracks. - HVAC Systems
Inspectors will check the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to ensure they are functioning properly and efficiently. - Appliances
If the warranty covers appliances, inspectors will ensure they’re in good working order, including the kitchen appliances, washing machines, and water heaters.
How to Prepare for a Warranty Inspection
- Review Your Warranty: Before scheduling an inspection, familiarize yourself with what is and isn’t covered by your builder’s warranty. This will help you focus on areas that are eligible for repairs.
- Create a List of Issues: Document any problems you’ve noticed since moving in, including minor issues that might seem unimportant but could worsen over time.
- Hire a Professional Inspector: While you can inspect your property yourself, it’s always a good idea to hire a professional inspector to ensure that no issue goes unnoticed.
- Allow Access: Make sure the inspector has access to all areas of the property, including the attic, basement, crawl spaces, and mechanical rooms. These areas may have hidden issues that need to be addressed.
Conclusion
Warranty inspections are an essential step in maintaining the quality and value of your property. They help identify defects that could otherwise go unnoticed, protect your investment, and ensure that the builder fulfills their obligations. By scheduling regular inspections during the warranty period, you can avoid costly repairs, prevent safety issues, and keep your home in top condition for years to come. Always take the time to invest in these inspections – they are an investment in your property’s future.
