Top Problems Found in Newly Constructed Homes

You’ve decided to buy a newly constructed home, have moved and are just beginning to settle in. You figure that because it is new must be perfect and that there won’t be any problems. Well, don’t be too confident. New homes, as most people who have ever purchased one knows, can go through what can best be described as “growing pains” or more accurately “shrinking pains” during the first year in particular. Here are some of the common defects buyers of newly constructed homes often find during the first year of ownership.

  • Improper grading: One of the most common problems owners find with new homes is that they are improperly graded. Landscaping and grading should slope away from the house in order to allow surface water to flow away from the structure and to protect the foundation. Improper grading causes water to pool up at the base of the house increasing the risk for flooding.
  • Windows: Improperly installed windows can result in poor insulation which can increase heating bills. Moreover, poor quality or improperly installed windows can lead to moisture build-up and mold formation which can damage the exterior of the home over time.
  • Wood floor problems: Everyone loves the look and feel of a hardwood floor. However, the important thing to remember about natural wood is that it is always growing. Therefore, wood flooring must be acclimated to the building site before it is installed otherwise gaps can develop after installation.
  • Plumbing problems: Plumbing issues should never be ignored as they can lead to flooding, mold formation and leaks. After you move in, or hopefully before you do, look for things such as leaking fixtures, dripping faucets, slow or clogged drains, toilets not secure or leaks into the sub-floor. If any of these issues are found, have them addressed as soon as possible.
  • Electrical issues: Unfortunately, electrical issues are also among the most common defects found in newly constructed homes. Defects that are electrical in nature could create a fire or safety hazard and this could lead to injury or loss of life. Keep on the lookout for improperly wired outlets, missing switch plates or receptacle covers or switches that don’t work.

Legal Recoursenew construction

While we are not qualified to dispense legal advice, some of these conditions may or not present you with the opportunity to take legal action against the builders. This is particularly the case if you have some sort of warranty or guarantee against such defects. Our Thousand Oaks moving and storage company wants you to be happy in your new home and will make sure that your possessions arrive there safely and on time giving you one less worry on what is usually a pretty stressful day. Our Calabasas moving and storage service is ready to demonstrate why we are leaders in this area.