What Home Inspectors Really Think About New Construction Homes in Atlanta (Hint: They Need Inspections at Every Stage)

Description: Just because it's brand new doesn't mean it's flawless. Discover why home inspectors in Atlanta recommend stage-by-stage inspections for new construction homes.

Introduction

If you're buying a brand-new home in Atlanta, Marietta, Smyrna, or Roswell, it's easy to assume everything is built perfectly. After all, it’s new—what could go wrong?

Plenty, actually.

As a Marietta home inspector, I’ve inspected hundreds of new builds that looked beautiful on the surface but had serious issues behind the walls. From missing insulation to improperly wired panels, new construction homes often suffer from rushed timelines, subcontractor miscommunication, or just plain human error.

In this post, we’ll break down:

• What goes wrong in new builds

• Why you should schedule inspections at each phase

• What Georgia code requires

• What inspectors really look for in Atlanta new construction inspections

The Myth: New = Perfect

We get it—you see granite countertops, shiny floors, and brand-new HVAC equipment and think: "This is turnkey."

But new construction doesn’t guarantee quality. Builders juggle multiple homes, and contractors are often under intense deadlines. That means corners can get cut. Worse yet, municipal inspectors are often overburdened and don’t catch everything.

Top Issues We Find in New Construction Homes:

• Incomplete or poorly installed insulation

• Improperly sloped grading around the foundation

• Roof flashing errors

• Loose HVAC ducts

• Broken or disconnected plumbing vents

• Incorrect electrical wiring or panel labeling

These problems aren't just cosmetic. They can result in long-term damage or even code violations.

Why Phase Inspections Are a Must

As a Marietta home inspector, I always recommend a 3-stage inspection process for new construction:

1. Pre-Pour Foundation Inspection

Before the slab is poured, we inspect:

• Footings and rebar placement

• Plumbing lines and electrical conduit

• Vapor barriers

• Foundation layout relative to plans

Georgia building code enforces standards for concrete strength, depth, and moisture barriers, especially important in clay-rich soils like those found in Kennesaw and Decatur.

2. Pre-Drywall (Framing) Inspection

Before the walls are sealed, we check:

• Structural framing

• Electrical wiring layout

• Plumbing rough-ins

• HVAC duct placement and insulation

• Roof and window flashing

This is the only time we can really see the bones of your house.

3. Final Inspection

Once construction is complete, we verify:

• Appliance installations

• Plumbing fixture operation

• Electrical panel configuration

• Attic ventilation and insulation

• Drainage and exterior grading

A full report is provided, just like with any resale home.

Real Story from the Field

In a recent Atlanta new build, I found a second-floor bathtub that wasn’t connected to the drain line. It looked perfect—but if the buyers hadn’t hired me, the first time they used it would’ve resulted in a flooded ceiling.

What Georgia Code Requires (and What It Misses)

Georgia follows the International Residential Code (IRC) with amendments. While municipal inspectors ensure basic code compliance, they:

• Don’t check every detail

• Only spend a few minutes per house

• May skip areas due to limited access

Private inspections go deeper. We test every outlet, inspect the attic, open access panels—things a city inspector rarely does.

Common Questions About New Construction Inspections

Q: If it passed city inspection, do I really need a private one? A: Yes. City inspectors often perform cursory checks under pressure. Private inspectors spend 2–3 hours per phase.

Q: Can I schedule a phase inspection without upsetting the builder? A: Most builders expect it and may even appreciate it. Some include it in the process.

Q: How much do phase inspections cost? A: In Metro Atlanta, expect $350–$500 per phase. It’s a fraction of the cost of post-closing repairs.

Why Buyers Should Never Skip Inspections on New Homes

• Prevent costly surprises

• Ensure systems are installed correctly

• Protect your investment

• Get documentation for warranty claims

Bonus Tip:

If your builder offers a 1-year warranty, get an inspection at the 11-month mark. Many issues—like settling cracks or HVAC imbalances—show up in the first year.

Call to Action

Just because it’s new doesn’t mean it’s problem-free. Schedule your new construction home inspection in Atlanta with someone who treats each phase like it matters—because it does.

Visit www.reynoldshomeandpropertysolutions.com to book your phase inspections today.