Outside

Walkway slope: the walkway slopes toward the house. With decorative brick veneer at the base, that’s a real problem. Water against stucco and thin veneer speeds up paint failure and spalling.

Kick-out flashing: it’s positioned wrong, so it channels water into the wall instead of away from it.

Spiral stair: it’s low and needs a safety barrier or a warning if people will use it every day.

Inside

The KitchenAid appliances look good, but the oven trim is misaligned and a dishwasher slide is bent.

Drawer guides and cabinet gaps that could let moisture get under the finishes over time.

A few closet outlets missing or offset, and rushed cuts on the vinyl window trim.

An open shower layout that looks sleek, but privacy and splash control could be concerns.

Tight attic access to the HVAC equipment, and secondary bathtubs with no overflow drains, something to think about if you have kids.

What to ask the builder for

Regrade the walkway and drainage away from the house

Correct the kick-out flashing

Install storm collars and seal the dryer vent

Realign the appliances and repair the cabinets and seals

Most of these are cosmetic or install-quality items, which is exactly what a builder should fix during the warranty period. Get them in writing before you sign off. A new construction inspection before closing and an 11-month warranty inspection before your first year is up give you two chances to get the builder to fix things at no cost to you.

Watch the walkthrough

Property Inspections Plus is a Gilbert, AZ home inspection company led by Certified Master Inspector Dan Pierce. We inspect homes across the East Valley, the Phoenix metro and the rest of Arizona. See all of our service areas.