Should You Get a Third-Party Home Inspection for Your New Build?

When buying a resale home, most people know a home inspection is a no-brainer. But when it comes to new construction homes, many buyers ask:

“Do I really need a third-party home inspection if the house is brand new?”

It’s a great question—and one we hear often at Garza Home Team San Antonio Real Estate. The short answer?

Yes. Absolutely. 100%.

Let’s break down why a third-party home inspection is essential, even for a home that’s fresh off the builder’s lot.

✅ Myth: New Homes Are Flawless

We get it. When you walk into a freshly built home with modern finishes, that new home smell, and pristine walls, it’s easy to assume everything is perfect. After all, it just passed city inspections, right?

Here’s the truth:

• City inspectors are only checking for basic code compliance.

• They’re often overloaded and can miss small (or major) issues.

• Builder warranties sound reassuring—but can be limited or hard to claim.

Just because it’s new doesn’t mean it’s done right.

🔍 What Could Go Wrong in a Brand-New Home?

You’d be surprised! At The Garza Home Team, we’ve seen our share of hidden surprises in new builds throughout San Antonio, from Alamo Ranch to Stillwater Ranch.

Here are just a few real examples:

• Improperly installed roof shingles

• Electrical panel issues or missing GFCI outlets

• Leaky plumbing under the slab

• HVAC ducts disconnected in the attic

• Cracked foundations or poor grading around the home

• Windows or doors not sealing properly

These are the kinds of things you don’t notice during a builder walkthrough—but a trained third-party inspector will.

🛠 What Is a Third-Party Home Inspection?

A third-party inspection is performed by an independent licensed home inspector—someone not affiliated with the builder and who works solely in your best interest.

They’ll carefully evaluate:

• Structure and foundation

• Roofing and attic insulation

• Electrical systems

• Plumbing systems

• Heating and cooling systems

• Windows, doors, and appliances

• Drainage and grading

• Safety and code compliance

This provides a detailed snapshot of the home’s current condition—and lets you catch issues before they turn into costly problems.

⏳ When Should You Schedule the Inspection?

We recommend two critical times to have a third-party inspection done:

1. Pre-Drywall Inspection

This takes place before the walls are closed up, allowing the inspector to review the home’s structure, wiring, plumbing, and ductwork while it’s still visible.

A pre-drywall inspection can reveal issues that are impossible to detect once the drywall is installed.

2. Final Inspection (Before Closing)

This happens after construction is complete but before you sign closing documents. The inspector checks everything is safe, functional, and finished properly.

💡 Bonus tip: Some buyers also schedule an 11-month inspection just before their builder warranty expires to catch anything missed.

💰 How Much Does a New Construction Inspection Cost?

In the San Antonio market, a standard home inspection typically costs $300 to $500, depending on the size of the home. A pre-drywall inspection can be an additional $200 to $300.

Compare that to the cost of repairing a foundation issue, replacing an HVAC unit, or dealing with a water leak—and it’s a no-brainer.

⚠️ What Happens if the Inspector Finds Problems?

Don’t worry—that’s why you hire us.

If your inspector identifies concerns, your Garza Home Team agent will work with the builder to request repairs before closing. Most reputable builders are willing to fix legitimate issues quickly.

It’s always better to catch and correct problems before they become your responsibility.

🧭 Why Work With The Garza Home Team?

At The Garza Home Team San Antonio Real Estate, we specialize in helping clients buy both resale and new construction homes across San Antonio. Our decades of local experience mean:

• We know the builders.

• We know their warranty policies.

• We know what to watch for.

• We have trusted, licensed inspectors we recommend.

Most importantly? We advocate for you every step of the way—from the first walkthrough to closing day and beyond.

🏡 Final Thoughts: Is a Third-Party Home Inspection Worth It?

Absolutely. Even a brand-new home can have costly oversights—and once you’ve closed, they’re yours to deal with.

A third-party home inspection gives you:

✔️ Peace of mind
✔️ Negotiating power
✔️ The confidence that your dream home is a smart investment

📞 Ready to Build or Buy in San Antonio? Let’s Talk.

Whether you're looking in Valley Ranch, Redbird Ranch, or a gated community in Northwest San Antonio, we’re here to help you navigate the new construction process with confidence.

Reach out to The Garza Home Team at Keller Williams City View today—we’ll make sure you’re protected, informed, and ready to move forward with peace of mind.