Building a brand-new home is something many Georgia residents dream of. The idea of owning a home that was built specifically for you can be exhilarating.
The new home building process can be long and can involve many steps. There are many decisions you must make, both large and small, but once you are in your new home, you figure that any of the headaches will be worth it.
However, data from the National Association of Homebuilders showed that 25% of all newly built homes in the United States have some form of structural defect.
There are many things you should check when your new home is being built to avoid discovering a structural problem before it is too late.
Electrical wiring
When you are designing your home, plan how much electricity you will need to use in each room. Your builder may simply put in the bare minimum wiring, which could cause you to have to rewire your home after moving in, or not have enough electricity to power everything in certain rooms.
Outdoor areas
Check the siding and any deck or patio areas for any cracks, gaps or other damage. Inspect your drainage system and make sure water flows away from your house. Improperly installed gutters or drainage systems can cause moisture problems in your basement.
Indoor areas
When it comes to the inside of your home, check for cracks in all areas, including the roof, walls, floors and drywall. Test out your doors as they are installed to ensure they open and close properly.
Water problems
Water issues can also cause major structural damage. Water stains, or condensation between your windowpanes, may be caused by defects in the building process.
Having a quality home builder is important. You are paying them a lot of money to construct the exact house that you want, and they have a legal duty to construct your new house in a quality manner.
You have legal rights and protections that are available to you if you realize your new home suffers from a structural defect. Attorneys can help protect these rights and explain all your available legal remedies.
