New Build, New Rules: What to Know About Warranties, Walkthroughs, and Inspections

Buying a brand-new home? Congratulations — you’re officially in the new construction club. 🥂

But here’s the truth: when you’re the first to live in a home, the process isn’t just about picking paint colors and showing off that never-used oven. There are rules, rights, and responsibilities you’ll want to understand — especially around warranties, walkthroughs, and inspections.

This is your guide to making sure your dream home is exactly what you signed up for.

1. Warranties: Your Home’s Safety Net

One of the biggest perks of buying new construction? Builder warranties.

Most builders offer different types of warranties that cover:

• Workmanship & materials – Usually for 1 year. Covers things like paint, trim, and finishes.

• Systems – Often 2 years. Includes electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.

• Structural – Can last up to 10 years. Covers the “bones” of your home, like the foundation and framing.

Pro tip: Read the fine print. Not all warranties are created equal, and knowing what’s covered (and what’s not) will save you stress later.

2. The Walkthrough: Your Final Quality Check

Before you get the keys, you’ll do a pre-closing walkthrough with the builder.

This is your moment to:

• Test every light, faucet, and outlet

• Check doors, windows, and locks

• Look for cosmetic issues like paint drips or scratches

• Make sure appliances are installed and working

Think of it as your home’s “final dress rehearsal.” If something’s not right, this is when you add it to your punch list so it can be fixed before you move in.

3. Inspections: Yes, Even for Brand-New Homes

Many buyers skip inspections on new construction — big mistake.

A third-party home inspection can catch issues the builder might have missed, like:

• Loose wiring

• Poor insulation in certain areas

• Drainage problems outside

• HVAC not calibrated correctly

Getting an inspection before closing gives you more leverage to have repairs made at the builder’s expense.

4. After You Move In: Keep an Eye Out

Some issues only pop up after you’ve lived in the home a while — a door that sticks in humid weather, a small roof leak after a storm.

Most builders will have a warranty service request process. Report problems right away and keep documentation (photos, dates, written requests).

Bottom Line

Buying new construction comes with serious advantages — modern design, energy efficiency, and zero “previous owner surprises.” But knowing how warranties, walkthroughs, and inspections work ensures your home stays perfect long after move-in day.

At Mylestone Home, we connect you directly with trusted builders so you can buy with confidence, skip the middleman, and get the peace of mind you deserve.

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