Buying a newly built home is exciting—everything is fresh, clean, and under warranty. But as the first year passes, small issues can start to appear. That’s why scheduling an 11-month warranty inspection before your builder’s one-year warranty expires is one of the smartest moves you can make as a new homeowner.

What Is an 11-Month Warranty Inspection?

An 11-month inspection is a professional evaluation of your home’s major systems and components, performed near the end of your builder’s one-year warranty. It helps identify any defects, incomplete work, or materials that didn’t hold up as expected.

Your inspector provides a detailed report you can share with your builder—giving you the documentation you need to request repairs before the warranty runs out.

Why It’s Worth Doing

1. Catch Problems While They’re Still Covered
Some issues take months to show up—settling cracks, water intrusion, HVAC performance problems, or minor plumbing leaks. If you don’t find them before the warranty expires, the cost of repair falls on you.

2. Hold the Builder Accountable
Even reputable builders can overlook details. A professional inspection gives you written, third-party confirmation of any issues so you can ask for corrections with confidence.

3. Protect Your Long-Term Investment
Our inspectors provide tips for future maintenance items or discuss helpful upgrade options (like adding gutters or handrails). This is the perfect opportunity for you to ask questions like how to maintain your air exchanger or how to locate your main water shut-off. The inspection not only ensures necessary repairs are made—it also establishes a baseline record of your home’s condition, which can be helpful for resale or future maintenance planning.

Here are some examples of common defects discovered on new construction:

11-Month Warranty defects at new construction

What’s Included in the Inspection

An 11-month inspection typically covers:

  • Roof, attic, and insulation

  • Foundation and grading

  • Siding, windows, and doors

  • Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems

  • Interior walls, ceilings, and flooring

  • Garage door and safety systems

When to Schedule

Plan your inspection during the 10th or early 11th month after closing. This gives your builder enough time to schedule and complete warranty work before your coverage expires.

An independent 11-month inspection gives you peace of mind today and protection for tomorrow.