Looking for Private Inspector for New Home Build
I am in the process of building a new home in North Carolina. I have a designer/builder lined up, who I trust and saw other homes they built. But I wanted to also engage an inspector-consultant(?), who could not only check that things are up to code, but follow the “best practices” that I read and hear about on FHB.
I am not looking for someone that gets into arguments with my builder over every issue. Nor do I expect to get a standard home build to become a model home for new technology and building science. I’m just looking for someone to make sure things are going correctly, and where changes should/can be made, makes suggestions.
Any thoughts on whether this arrangement works, and if so, where one would go to find someone? All comments appreciated.
Replies
Where in NC?
Over 50 yrs a commercial and residential carpenter and I’ve done what you ask several times for friends and prior customers. If you could find one like this that would be well versed in codes and innovation you might get lucky.
The problem is that one of the last things any builder or designer wants to hear is “a friend…..associate…….fill in the blank” mentioned to me that…….
Here you pit your builder vs “advisor” which “could” cause a problem.
Thanks Calvin.
I definitely don't want to cause a problem. I guess I will just go with my initial thought of saying something like ... "Hey, I saw this article in Fine Homebuilding that said ...."
But only one time!
And only if I bring lunch for the crew first!
Just my two cents. There are great builders, carpenters, contractors out there with a heart of gold and others that look to pull a fast one.
Some builders will actually test the buyer right out of the gate to see what they can get away with. I went through it a long time ago and if I only had the experience at that time. If you have the time I would make visits during each phase to see how things are going. Make a visit at the end of the day when they or not there or ask your builder when is a good time. Remember, this is your property, your investment. Take a notepad with you, take notes of everything and take lots of pictures. If you feel something isn't right raise your voice and ask questions. The internet is a toolbox. Read online, watch you tube videos to help you understand what is going on. If you have issues with builder in the first phase of construction, consult with a lawyer. Laws vary from state to state.
Do not bring lunch for the builder or subs, JMO.
They have a contract. You are making a big investment. Your job is to make sure the house is being built properly and they are doing a nice job. If they see you are a nice guy they may get lazy and figure "we can do whatever we want because this guy was nice to us". Just be friendly , professional but make them aware this is strictly business.