Pre-Drywall Inspection

Are Pre-Drywall Inspections Worth The Cost?

This is a question I get asked almost weekly, and the short answer is YES! Performing a new home inspection may seem like a waste of time. After all, the builder guarantees that everything is installed correctly. The state or county inspector has signed off on the new build. What could be wrong?

New home inspection defects are a real problem, but instead of telling you why these inspections are important, we thought we would show you examples of different pre-drywall and final inspection defects we have found during our new home inspections.

Missing Insulation Baltimore County

Discovered during a final inspection of a newly constructed townhome in Baltimore County, Maryland.

Using a thermal camera to scan the upper-level ceiling we discovered this cold spot that appeared to be missing insulation based on its size and shape.

Because no attic access was provided at the flat roof the only remedy will be to remove the drywall to make the necessary repair. Imagine having to do this after you have moved into the home!

Broken Roof Framing

During this pre-drywall inspection in Ellicott City, we found a broken roof truss. As a side note, this was discovered shortly after the Howard County inspector had signed off on the framing inspection! County inspectors don’t carry ladders and don’t enter the attic!

Questions To Ask Before Skipping A Pre-Drywall Inspection

Before you decide to forgo a pre-drywall inspection, ask yourself these critical questions:

How long does the county inspector stay at my home during the framing – pre-drywall inspection?
Why is the builder trying to talk me out of having an independent home inspection?
Do you know that the builder is often required to contact the home warranty company if issues are found during the construction of your new home?
Do you have a paper trail of repair requests from the builder, or is the project manager trying to do everything verbally?
Does the builder have my best interest at heart?

If you don’t know the answer to these questions, read 5 New Home Inspection FAQs, then call me!

As a former home builder and carpenter, I have a unique perspective on this and can answer any other questions you may have about the new home construction process and some red flags to look out for.

As a side note, you can look up your Howard County permit and inspection status here at the Howard County Department of Permitting Services.