Buying a brand-new home is exciting. Everything is fresh, modern, and—hopefully—built to last. But here’s the truth that surprises a lot of buyers: even new construction homes can have defects. In fact, they often do. Construction is a complex process involving a lot of people, materials, and moving parts. Mistakes happen. The key is knowing what common new construction defects to look out for so you can catch problems early, before they get worse.
Foundation and Grading New Construction Defects
One of the most common defects in new homes starts at the very bottom—the foundation. If the ground wasn’t properly prepared or compacted before pouring the foundation, it can shift or settle over time. This can lead to cracks in walls, uneven floors, or doors that don’t close properly. Another issue tied closely to the foundation is grading. If the ground around the house doesn’t slope away from the structure, water can pool around the foundation and cause damage or even leaks in the crawlspace or basement. These aren’t things you can always spot with a quick walk-through, which is why inspections are so important.
Roof and Attic Concerns
The roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, so it needs to be installed correctly. But in some new homes, there may be missing flashing, poorly sealed vents, or even improperly nailed shingles. These may not seem like a big deal at first, but they can lead to leaks, water damage, and before you know it, mold. In the attic, it’s not uncommon to find insulation that’s been installed incorrectly or inadequate ventilation. Both can affect your home’s energy efficiency and air quality.
Plumbing and Drainage Problems
With new construction, plumbing defects can pop up in all sorts of ways. You might have loose connections, slow drains, or pipes that weren’t secured properly and rattle when the water runs. Sometimes the wrong materials are used, or things aren’t installed according to code. These issues may not show up right away, but over time, they can lead to serious water damage or mold growth if not addressed.
Electrical New Construction Defects
Another area where corners sometimes get cut is the electrical system. Missing GFCI outlets, improperly grounded wiring, or overloaded circuits are more common in new builds than you might think. It’s easy to assume everything is fine just because the lights come on, but it’s always best to have a professional take a closer look.
HVAC and Ventilation Mistakes
Heating and cooling systems need to be sized and installed correctly for the home they’re in. If they’re too big or too small, they’ll either cycle on and off too frequently or struggle to keep the house comfortable. Ducts must be sealed and insulated properly, and vents need to be in the correct spots. Poor HVAC work can lead to uneven temperatures, high energy bills, and unnecessary wear on the system.
New homes need a thorough third-party inspection to hold the builder accountable for their work—which is your investment. This step gives you peace of mind and the chance to get problems fixed before they cost you more later.
Appalachian Inspection Services offers home inspections in Asheville, NC, and the surrounding areas. Contact us to request an appointment for our services.