Buying a brand-new home is an exciting milestone. Everything looks fresh, the finishes shine and it feels like the perfect start. But even with new construction, issues can arise that may not be noticeable right away. In Minnesota, builders are required to provide a one-year warranty on new home construction. That means homeowners have a limited window to identify and report any problems before the warranty expires. This is where a house inspector in the Twin Cities area comes in—specifically through what is called an 11-month inspection.
What is an 11-Month Inspection?
An 11-month inspection is essentially a detailed checkup on your new home, conducted by a professional house inspector before the one-year builder’s warranty ends. The inspector examines all major systems and structural components, looking for defects or concerns that may have developed in the first year. This could include issues with roofing, siding, plumbing, HVAC systems, electrical wiring, insulation, windows and even cosmetic finishes. The inspector then provides a thorough report that can be shared with your builder to ensure repairs or adjustments are made while the warranty is still valid.
Why is an 11-Month Inspection Important?
Many homeowners assume that new homes are problem-free, but even new construction can have hidden issues. Some problems might not appear immediately, such as water intrusion from poor sealing, settling cracks in the foundation or faulty installation of mechanical systems. If these are not addressed within the warranty period, the cost of repairs will fall on the homeowner.
By hiring a house inspector for an 11-month inspection, you gain peace of mind and documentation of issues that need correction. Builders generally want to stand by their work, but they can only address concerns that are brought to their attention. A professional inspection ensures that you’re not overlooking potential problems that could become expensive down the road.
How to Prepare for an 11-Month Inspection
Preparation is simple but important. Start by keeping track of any issues you’ve noticed during your first year of living in the home. This could include things like doors sticking, uneven flooring or drafts near windows. Having a list ready makes it easier for your inspector to verify and expand upon your concerns.
Next, schedule the inspection well in advance of your warranty’s expiration. This gives you enough time to review the report, submit findings to your builder and allow the builder time to complete necessary repairs.
Finally, make sure the inspector you hire has experience with new construction homes. A seasoned house inspector will know what to look for and how to identify problems that may not be obvious to a homeowner.
Protect Your Investment
Your new home is one of the largest investments you’ll ever make. An 11-month inspection is a smart step to protect that investment and ensure your builder addresses any concerns while the warranty is still active. By taking action before the 12-month mark, you can enjoy your new home with confidence, knowing it’s been carefully checked by a trusted professional. Give us a call today at 952-854-5110 or contact us!
