New Construction Home Inspections

Even brand-new homes can have defects. With multiple trades working on tight timelines, small oversights happen — and those can turn into expensive repairs after you move in. That’s why a new construction home should be inspected by an independent home inspector, not just the builder’s team or the municipality.

At On the Level Inspection Service, we inspect new construction homes throughout Southeast Wisconsin, and it’s common to find items that need attention — even in well-built homes. The goal isn’t to nitpick your new home. It’s to help you move forward with clarity, documentation, and confidence.

And just like every inspection we perform, our approach is straightforward and supportive: we identify what matters, explain it clearly, and provide a report you can use to request corrections before issues become bigger.

When Should a New Home Be Inspected?

There are three key stages where an inspection is most valuable:

Inspection Type

Best Time to Schedule

Purpose

Pre-Drywall Inspection Before insulation and drywall are installed Catch issues while framing, wiring, and plumbing are still visible
Final Inspection 2–3 days before your builder walk-through or closing Identify items to address before you take ownership
11-Month Warranty Inspection Around 10 or 11 months after closing Document concerns before your builder’s warranty period ends

If you’re building: schedule a Pre-Drywall + Final inspection.
If you’ve already moved in: schedule an 11-Month Warranty inspection before coverage expires.

Pre-Drywall Inspection (Before the Walls Go Up)

A pre-drywall inspection allows us to evaluate key components before everything is covered. We inspect visible elements of the structure and rough-in systems, including:

  • Foundation components (as visible)
  • Floor, wall, and roof framing
  • Rough-in plumbing and electrical (as accessible)
  • Windows and exterior doors (as installed at that stage)

Common items found at this stage can include missing fire blocking, framing concerns, incomplete air sealing, and rough-in issues that would otherwise be hidden once drywall goes up.

Why it matters: This is often your only opportunity to address concerns you won’t be able to see later.

Final Inspection (Before the Builder Walk-Through)

Once the home is complete, we perform a full inspection similar to a standard home inspection, with special attention to new construction details and finish quality.

We evaluate major systems and components such as:

  • Roofing and exterior
  • Attic/insulation/ventilation
  • Electrical, plumbing, HVAC
  • Interior components and safety items

Typical findings may include missing insulation, grading/drainage concerns, incomplete exterior sealing, and HVAC or electrical issues that need correction or documentation.

Why it matters: Builders often have a limited window for reporting items. Our report provides a clear, third-party record you can share before closing or during your walk-through.

11-Month Warranty Inspection (Before Your Warranty Expires)

Timing: Around month 10 or 11 of ownership

Many builders provide a one-year warranty covering defects in workmanship and materials. An 11-month warranty inspection helps identify items that may have developed after move-in — such as cracks, leaks, drainage issues, or settlement-related concerns.

Why it matters: This is your best opportunity to document concerns while they’re still eligible for warranty coverage.

Why Choose On the Level Inspection Service

  • Local experience: Inspections across Southeast Wisconsin, with an understanding of our regional construction and seasonal impacts.
  • Clear reporting: Findings explained in plain language, with photos and practical context.
  • Independent and unbiased: We work for you — not the builder.
  • Supportive approach: We help you understand priorities, not just a list of items.

Ready to schedule a New Construction Inspection?
Call or text us to get on the calendar or visit our website to book your inspection.

In the Why Choose…. you didn’t include the Advanced tools

You’re right — here’s the corrected Why Choose On the Level Inspection Service section with Advanced Tools included (in OTL voice):

Why Choose On the Level Inspection Service

  • Trusted local experience: New construction inspections across Southeast Wisconsin, with an understanding of our regional building practices and seasonal conditions.
  • Advanced tools when they matter: We use tools like thermal imaging, moisture meters, and other inspection technology to help identify concerns that aren’t always visible during a walkthrough.
  • Independent and unbiased: We work for you — not the builder.
  • Clear communication: We don’t just list items; we explain what’s important, what to monitor, and what to address sooner.
  • Helpful documentation: A detailed report with photos you can share with your builder to request corrections efficiently.

FAQs

Yes. Even brand-new homes can have defects due to tight timelines and multiple trades. An inspection helps catch issues early.

The best times are Pre-Drywall, Final (before walk-through/closing), and 11-Month Warranty (around month 10–11).

Final is before closing to address items before ownership. 11-Month is after living in the home to document issues before warranty ends.

We recommend Pre-Drywall + Final if you’re building. If you’ve already moved in, schedule the 11-Month Warranty.

Yes — a clear report with photos so you can request corrections efficiently.
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