Living in Massachusetts, where harsh winters can take a toll on homes, are you confident your newly built house will stand up to its elements – even with a builder’s warranty? You can’t be sure.
Although a builder’s warrant may give you some peace of mind, it doesn’t cover every potential issue. For this, you need a home inspection. This is a more detailed evaluation of your property’s condition before you fully commit and decide to sign that dotted line.
If you are buying a newly built home in Massachusetts, you might have a couple of questions.
You may be wondering, “Do I need a home inspection even when I am buying a newly built home?” or “Aren’t home inspections and builder warranties the same thing.” To answer both of these, we would say yes and no, respectively. But this isn’t just the end of clearing your doubts and confusion.
In this blog, we will explore the difference between builder warranties and home inspections for your newly built home.
What Are Builder Warranties?
When you buy a house, the builder gives you a warranty, called “builder warranty”. With this, you get the assurance from the builder that if something big goes wrong with the house, then they will fix it for free. But, there is obviously a specific period for it. These warranties can vary from one to ten years. In Massachusetts, these warranties usually cover important parts of the house, like the roof, electrical systems, etc. (We will cover what these warranties include in detail later in this blog). However, you need to remember that these warranties doesn’t guarantee for the issues/repairs that are a consequence of you not maintaining the house properly. If something happens because of weather, or if you didn’t take care of the house, then it won’t be helped by the warranty.What Are Home Inspections?
A home inspection is a thorough evaluation of the house before you end up buying it. It is a process of getting the assurance that everything is working properly before you sign the papers. In Massachusetts, getting the home inspections is super important as it helps you find out the hidden issues that could become a nuisance later on. Even if the house seems intriguing from the outside, you don’t have to fall for it just like that – there could be major things wrong inside that you can’t see. Let’s say an inspector finds out about issues; what’s next? You can talk to the seller about either fixing those issues or not buying the house at all. This way, you can ensure you’re making a sound investment, and your new home will be safe and comfortable.What Do Builder Warranties Cover?
Builder warranties serve as a form of protection against potential defects and issues that may arise in your new home. In Massachusetts, these warranties typically cover different key aspects, such as the following:Structural Defects
Most of the builder warranties cover structural elements for a specified period that could range from one to ten years. These take guarantee for the defects in the foundation, load-bearing walls, beams, and framing. If any of such components fail because of poor workmanship or materials, then it will be the builder’s responsibility to fix, repair, or replace.Workmanship and Materials
These guarantees also ensure that the home is constructed according to the local building codes and industry standards. For this factor, these guarantees usually last one to two years. During this time, they encompass issues related to labor and materials used in the construction, as well as plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems.Appliance Coverage
Some of the builders also offer warranties that include major appliances installed in the home, such as ovens, refrigerators, and dishwashers. However, not every builder offers this coverage so, it is better that you review the warranty details carefully first.Roofing and Exterior
Builder guarantees also include roofing and exterior elements. These elements can range from siding, gutters to windows. Usually, the roofing warranty lasts between 5 to 30 years, depending on the materials used.What Do Home Inspections Cover?
A home inspection provides a thorough evaluation of the property’s condition and identifies potential issues that may require attention. Let’s have a detailed look at what a home inspection typically covers:Structural Components
During home inspection, your home’s structural integrity is thoroughly evaluated. Inspectors assess the foundation for any cracks or signs of settling. Not only this, but they also inspect the overall framing of the house to identify potential issues with load-bearing elements.Roofing
This is another area that the inspectors thoroughly examine during inspections. They check for wear and tear on shingles or tiles, evaluate the integrity of flashing, and assess the overall drainage system (gutters included). After the inspection, you can also get a thorough roof inspection that can reveal existing leaks or future problems that may require immediate attention.Exterior Features
A home inspection also covers the home’s exterior features. This includes the windows, siding, and doors. When inspecting, they look for signs of damage and ensure that the seals and locks are functioning properly. This makes sure that the home’s exterior is not only aesthetically pleasing, but can also withstand Massachusetts’ weather conditions.Major Systems
During the inspection, the inspector also conducts a comprehensive plumbing inspection, where they check for leaks or corrosion in pipes. They will also evaluate the condition of the water heater. Along with this, inspectors will assess all fixtures, including the following:- Sinks
- Toilets
- Showers