Why You Should Get an 11-Month Warranty Inspection with

A-Level Home Inspection

When purchasing a new home in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) Metroplex, most builders offer a one-year warranty to cover any defects in workmanship or materials. But did you know that you can get an 11-month warranty inspection before that warranty expires? This critical inspection helps identify any issues that may not have been apparent during the first year of ownership, ensuring that your home stays in top shape for years to come. In this blog post, we’ll dive into why an 11-month warranty inspection is essential, what it covers, and what you can expect in terms of costs.

Why Should You Get an 11-Month Warranty Inspection?

After a year in your home, you’ve likely become more familiar with its quirks, but some issues might have flown under the radar. Builders often address major problems in the first year, but smaller defects can go unnoticed until the home settles or until weather conditions change.

An 11-month warranty inspection provides you with a final opportunity to identify and address issues before your builder’s warranty expires. If you wait too long, you may miss the window to have these issues covered under the builder’s warranty, and you’ll have to pay out of pocket for repairs.

Benefits of an 11-Month Inspection:

Peace of Mind: Ensures all issues are addressed before the warranty ends.
Avoid Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Catch small issues before they become costly repairs.
Maximize Your Builder’s Warranty: Builders are more likely to cover repairs that are caught within the warranty period.
Prevent Future Damage: Early detection of issues like leaks or foundation problems can prevent significant damage later on.
Better Resale Value: Addressing minor issues before they become noticeable ensures your home stays in top condition and helps retain its value.

What Is Covered in an 11-Month Warranty Inspection?

An 11-month warranty inspection is comprehensive and designed to find issues that could be missed during regular living. The home is carefully evaluated, and common issues are addressed in the following areas:

1. Structural Integrity

Foundation: Cracks or settling issues that may not be noticeable in the early months of homeownership.
Framing: The structure of your home, including walls, beams, and support systems, is examined for defects.

2. Roofing and Attic

Roof Shingles and Flashing: Check for signs of wear, leaks, or misalignment.
Attic Insulation and Ventilation: Ensures proper insulation and ventilation to avoid mold growth or energy inefficiency.

3. Plumbing and Electrical Systems

Leaks: Plumbing lines are inspected for leaks that may have developed over the year.
Water Pressure: Water pressure and flow are checked to ensure no clogs or issues.
Electrical Panel and Outlets: Ensures that all outlets, wiring, and electrical systems are functioning properly.

4. HVAC System

Heating and Cooling: Inspection of the HVAC system to ensure it’s running efficiently, with no issues in ducts, compressors, or air filters.

5. Windows and Doors

Alignment and Seals: Make sure that doors and windows are sealed correctly to prevent drafts or water leaks.

6. Exterior and Landscaping

Siding and Grading: Ensure that water is properly flowing away from the foundation and check for signs of erosion or improper grading.
Driveways and Sidewalks: Cracks or settling that may need attention.

7. Interior Finishes

Drywall Cracks: Small cracks that may appear due to settling, as well as uneven paint or finishes.
Flooring and Trim: Ensure that all flooring is properly installed and there are no issues with trim or molding.

What Does an 11-Month Warranty Inspection Cost?

The cost of an 11-month warranty inspection can vary based on factors like the size of your home, location, and the level of detail the inspection includes. On average, you can expect to pay between $300 to $600 for a comprehensive inspection. This price range typically covers a basic inspection of your home’s major systems and structural elements.

Keep in mind that while an inspection fee may seem like an extra expense, it’s a small price to pay for the peace of mind and protection it offers. If issues are identified that fall under the builder’s warranty, the cost of the repair will be covered, saving you potentially thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses.

Factors That Can Influence the Cost:

Home Size: Larger homes often cost more to inspect.
Inspection Scope: A more detailed inspection may cost more, especially if it includes things like mold testing, energy audits, or radon checks.
Location in DFW: Costs may vary depending on your specific area of the DFW Metroplex. For example, inspections may cost slightly more in North Dallas or areas with higher property values.

How to Schedule an 11-Month Warranty Inspection

Scheduling an 11-month warranty inspection is simple. Here’s what you need to do:

Contact a Licensed Inspector: Choose a reputable home inspector with experience in performing warranty inspections.
Schedule Early: It’s recommended to schedule the inspection at least a month before your warranty expires. This gives you time to address any issues with the builder.

Review Your Warranty: Familiarize yourself with the specifics of your builder’s warranty to ensure that the issues identified during the inspection are covered.

Conclusion

An 11-month warranty inspection is an essential step in ensuring your home stays in great condition and that any potential issues are addressed before your builder’s warranty expires. Whether it’s foundational issues, plumbing leaks, or HVAC system problems, catching these early can save you time, money, and stress down the road. Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule your 11-month inspection today to protect your investment and enjoy peace of mind for years to come.

If you’re in the DFW Metroplex and need a professional inspection, reach out to a licensed inspector who can provide a detailed evaluation of your home’s systems and structures.

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11-Month Warranty Inspection