Below you will find some top questions for builders about 3rd party inspections from both the TREC and IRC code perspective. This resource is also available in PDF form for our builder partners.
- What do inspectors look for during an inspections?
- As a TREC inspector: Standards require a 3rd party inspector to notate issues with the foundation, grading & drainage, windows/walls/doors/floors, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, insulation, framing and roof.
- As an IRC code inspector: Standards require an inspector to look for anything code related that is visible or accessible according to the code year standard the house was built to (i.e. 2021 IRC). These inspections are generally performed at frame stage/shear wall/ post sheathing, after MEP have been installed, and at final (when house is complete).
- What are the most common items found during new construction inspections?
- All types of items are found regularly. Since 2020, there tend to be more issues due to the increased housing demand and lack of experienced labor.
- If a build is inspected at intervals during the build process at (foundation/rough, Frame & MEP, and final) a lot of items can be caught up front. This will mitigate a builder’s liability for warranty issues as well as improve brand’s image in the marketplace.
- All types of items are found regularly. Since 2020, there tend to be more issues due to the increased housing demand and lack of experienced labor.
- What are some misconceptions about 3rd party inspectors?
- 3rd Party inspectors just want to call out the builder to appear to be worth the money spent.
- In truth, an inspector is an extra set of eyes to help a builder deliver the best product they can to the client. A lot of times, the inspector is an advocate for the builder. The inspector is able to objectively help explain to the buyer all of the various trades and systems that go into the build project.
- Inspectors do not know what they are talking about and make the builders look bad.
- Inspectors are all licensed by TREC in the State of Texas. Every inspector has to have a general understanding of the systems in a home or commercial building. However, the inspector’s personal experience can vary greatly.
- 3rd Party inspectors just want to call out the builder to appear to be worth the money spent.
- What experience should a builder look for in an inspector who is performing an inspection on the builders behalf?
- Code certification (IRC)
- TREC certification
- Experience in a building trade or general contracting
- Length or type of inspection experience
- Familiarity with new construction or remodeling.
- Is the builder required to make corrections to what is called out in the 3rd party inspectors report?
- The scope of a 3rd party inspection as defined by TREC is a limited visual survey and basic performance evaluation of the systems and components of a building using normal controls that provides information regarding the general condition of a residence at the time of inspection.
- While an inspector should be calling out items that are not operating properly or have been installed poorly or improperly, each item is not required to be corrected. It is advised to take each item and on a case by case basis and make corrections as agreed upon per your contract.
These were clearly just a few top questions for builders about 3rd party inspections. If you have any further questions or are in need of consulting or inspection services, we would love to have the opportunity to serve you and your clients.
Dion Coomber
Cornerstone Property Inspection
214-680-5111
cornerstone-usa.com
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