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Are you building a new home in Vermont or New Hampshire?
Are you building a new home in Vermont or New Hampshire?
When building a brand-new home, most people don’t realize the importance of scheduling a new home inspection (Phase Inspection). While it is not a common practice in rural Vermont and New Hampshire, a "Phase Inspection" can help detect concerns and issues before they are covered up and may be costly and dangerous later in life. We will be glad to work with you, your builder/designer/architect, and whoever else you may have on your new construction team by providing on-site inspections, building contract reviews as well as building plans review.
Phase #1
Phase #1
Pre-pour Foundation
The first phase of the new construction inspection process starts when the home’s foundation make-up has been complete, and the builder is ready to pour concrete.
The purpose of the pre-pour inspection is to help spot-check the overall quality of work before the concrete is poured over the excavated beams, reinforcing bars, plumbing, & post-tensioned cable system.
Phase #2
Phase #2
Pre-Drywall Inspection
The second phase of the new construction process is conducted when the structure has reached the stage when drywall and insulation are ready to be installed. Ideally about 80% of electrical and plumbing roughs-ins are completed.
The purpose of the pre-drywall inspection is to identify defective or sub-standard installation practices before the installation of the exterior cladding, interior insulation, and drywall occurs. Once those materials cover the interior & exterior of the home, the opportunity for inspection is gone! You do not want to miss this phase!
Phase #3
Phase #3
Final Inspection
The third phase of the new construction process is conducted when the home is substantially complete, generally around the time the builder is prepared to do a final walk-through with the home buyer.
The purpose of the final inspection is to ensure the major systems and components in the home are installed in accordance with common model building standards & that there are no observable major defects present prior to your purchasing the home from the builder. The final inspection is vital & highly recommended.
Phase #4
Phase #4
11 Month Warranty
This final phase is conducted 11 months after moving in. A good reputable builder should warranty their work for at minimum one year. As you have lived in the house for a short time and things have "settled" and started to be used some components may need to be tuned, adjusted or repaired. We create a punchlist for you to provide your builder to complete their work.
Other options
Other options
Pre-slab Pour
An additional concrete slab phase can be intergrated into the services. This phase is important to check for proper radiant layout, plumbing and reinforcement before the concrete slab is poured.
Plan check/ Consultation
Before the first nail is hammered, let Cottonwood Home Inspections provide valuable consultation and evaluation of your new home plans. This service is beneficial whether you're working with a builder's standard design, your own vision, or architect-drawn blueprints.
With our extensive experience in green building practices, cutting-edge new construction techniques, and a comprehensive understanding of every component of a home, we are passionate about helping you bring your dream home to life, ensuring a well-designed and buildable plan from the outset. Let our expertise be your guide in creating the perfect foundation for your future.
New Construction in Vermont: The Wild West of Homebuilding?
Vermont's scenic beauty and independent spirit are undeniable. But when it comes to new home construction, that same spirit can lead to a "Wild West" scenario, leaving homeowners vulnerable.
Ask a handful of Vermont builders about building codes, and you'll likely encounter a mix of confusion and confident misinformation. "Vermont doesn't have a building code," they might proclaim. Or, "Contractor licensing? We don't need that here." And when you inquire about energy code compliance, you might be met with blank stares.
The reality? Vermont does adhere to the International Residential Code (IRC). Contractors working on projects exceeding $10,000 are required to register with the state. And the Vermont Residential Building Energy Standards (RBES) do apply to all residential construction, renovations, and repairs.
So, why the disconnect?
The Enforcement Gap:
The biggest issue lies in enforcement. Unlike many other states, Vermont lacks consistent, statewide building inspections. This means that builders, some with outdated practices or a focus on maximizing profit, often operate without oversight.
"I've been doing this for 40 years, and I've had no problems ever!" This common refrain, while seemingly reassuring, ignores the fact that codes and best practices evolve. Some builders are genuinely unaware of the latest regulations, while others may intentionally cut corners, using cheaper materials and neglecting crucial safety standards.
The Consumer's Risk:
This lack of oversight puts Vermont homeowners at significant risk. During home inspections for sales, I frequently find major defects in newly constructed homes. These issues range from missing egress windows (a critical safety hazard) to faulty electrical and plumbing systems requiring extensive, destructive repairs.
Who bears the burden of these costly fixes? The seller, who invested a fortune in a flawed property? Or the buyer, who inherits a house with hidden dangers? The current system leaves both parties vulnerable.
A Solution: Phase Inspections
The solution isn't complicated. It's a practice common in much of the world: phase inspections.
Instead of a single inspection at the end of construction, independent inspectors should evaluate the work at key stages:
Concrete Phase: Ensuring proper foundation and structural integrity.
Pre-Drywall: Verifying framing, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC installations.
Finish Stage: Inspecting the final touches and ensuring compliance.
11-Month Warranty: Addressing any issues that arise within the first year.
Additional inspections, such as plan reviews and site evaluations, can further enhance quality control.
Why Vermont Needs Change:
Vermont's unique construction landscape demands a shift towards greater accountability and consumer protection. Phase inspections would:
Ensure code compliance and safety standards.
Protect homeowners from costly repairs.
Promote higher-quality construction.
Increase the value of homes.
It's time for Vermont to move beyond the "Wild West" approach and embrace a system that safeguards homeowners and promotes responsible building practices.
Schedule Your New Contstruction Phase Inspection Now!
Schedule Your New Contstruction Phase Inspection Now!
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