Common Mistakes Found in New Construction Home Inspections

Buying a brand-new home is exciting. Everything looks fresh, modern, and untouched—so it’s easy to assume there are no problems hiding behind the walls. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. At Smith & Smith Home Inspections in Murfreesboro, TN, we routinely find defects in newly constructed homes that can lead to costly repairs, safety concerns, and long-term maintenance issues if they go unnoticed.

A new home inspection isn’t about finding fault—it’s about protecting your investment. Below are some of the most common mistakes and defects we see in new construction homes across Middle Tennessee.

1. Improper Grading and Drainage

One of the most frequent issues in new construction is poor grading around the foundation. Builders often rush the final landscaping, which can result in soil sloping toward the home instead of away from it.

Why it matters:

• Water pooling near the foundation can cause structural movement

• Increased risk of basement or crawlspace moisture

• Potential for mold growth and wood rot

Proper grading and drainage are essential to keeping your home dry and structurally sound.

2. Roof Installation Errors

A brand-new roof doesn’t guarantee quality workmanship. We commonly find:

• Missing or improperly installed flashing

• Poorly nailed shingles

• Inadequate sealing around roof penetrations (vents, chimneys)

Why it matters:
Roofing defects can lead to leaks, water damage, and premature roof failure—sometimes within the first few years of ownership.

3. Electrical Defects

Electrical systems are one of the most critical components of a home, and mistakes here can be dangerous. Common issues include:

• Loose or improperly wired outlets

• Missing GFCI or AFCI protection

• Double-tapped breakers in the electrical panel

• Incomplete labeling

Why it matters:
Electrical defects increase the risk of shock, fire, and equipment damage. These problems are not always visible to the untrained eye.

4. Plumbing Problems

Plumbing defects are extremely common in new homes, especially when multiple subcontractors are involved. We often find:

• Leaking or loose connections

• Improper pipe supports

• Incorrect slope on drain lines

• Missing or improperly installed shutoff valves

Why it matters:
Small plumbing issues can turn into major water damage over time, often hidden behind walls or under floors.

5. HVAC Installation Issues

Even brand-new heating and cooling systems can be improperly installed. Common defects include:

• Inadequate airflow due to poor duct design

• Missing or damaged insulation on ductwork

• Incorrectly sized systems

• Improper condensate drainage

Why it matters:
HVAC problems can lead to uneven temperatures, higher energy bills, excess humidity, and shortened equipment lifespan.

6. Structural Framing Defects

While most new homes meet basic structural requirements, we still find framing mistakes such as:

• Improperly notched or drilled studs

• Missing fasteners or connectors

• Inadequate support beams or posts

• Poorly aligned framing members

Why it matters:
Structural defects can affect the long-term stability of the home and may be expensive to correct after construction is complete.

7. Insulation and Energy Efficiency Gaps

Insulation is often rushed or incompletely installed. Common issues include:

• Missing insulation in attics or walls

• Compressed or improperly placed insulation

• Gaps around windows, doors, and penetrations

Why it matters:
Poor insulation leads to higher utility bills, comfort issues, and potential moisture problems.

8. Cosmetic vs. Functional Oversights

While many buyers focus on cosmetic details during a walkthrough, functional issues are often overlooked, such as:

• Windows that don’t open or seal properly

• Doors that are misaligned

• Cracked tiles due to subfloor movement

• Incomplete caulking or sealing

Why it matters:
These issues may seem minor at first but can indicate deeper installation problems.

Why New Homes Still Need Professional Inspections

Even the best builders can make mistakes, and city or county inspections are limited in scope. A professional home inspection provides:

• An independent evaluation of the entire home

• Identification of defects before your warranty period expires

• Peace of mind that your home is safe and properly built

At Smith & Smith Home Inspections, we specialize in thorough, unbiased inspections for new construction homes in Murfreesboro, Smyrna, Shelbyville, Manchester and all surrounding Middle Tennessee communities.

Protect Your Investment from Day One

A new home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. Don’t assume “new” means “perfect.” A professional inspection can help ensure issues are addressed early—before they become expensive problems.

If you’re building or purchasing a new home in Murfreesboro, TN, contact Smith & Smith Home Inspections to schedule your new construction or pre-closing inspection today.