11-Month Warranty Inspections
Protect your investment before your builder's warranty expires
What is an 11-Month Warranty Inspection?
Overview
An 11-month warranty inspection is a comprehensive home inspection scheduled just before your builder's one-year warranty expires. This professional inspection identifies any defects or issues that may have emerged after moving in but are still covered under warranty. It's your chance to maximize your warranty benefits and protect your investment. It is performed by an independent, impartial inspector — not the builder.
What is Examined?
The inspection covers the same systems as a standard home inspection: foundation, structure, roofing, exterior, attic, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and all accessible components. The inspector operates systems under normal conditions and documents all findings. We also document any conditions you have encountered during the past year of living in the building.
What Does the Report Cover?
The report describes the condition of each system and identifies any material defects — conditions that significantly affect the value, safety, or habitability of the home. It gives you a documented record to present to the builder for warranty repairs.
Why This Inspection is Crucial
New homes aren't perfect. Construction is complex, and details get missed.
Catch What Was Missed
- Construction flaws and improper installations that weren't apparent during the initial walk-through.
- First-year issues — the ones that only show up once someone's living there.
- Defects in systems that were not fully operational or accessible at closing.
- Hidden moisture intrusion, grading problems, or drainage issues.
Protect Your Investment
- Request repairs from the builder while still covered under the warranty to avoid out-of-pocket expenses after expiration.
- Create a documented record of the home's condition at the one-year mark.
- Even if you skipped a pre-closing inspection, this may be the first unbiased professional assessment of your property.
- Prioritize repairs intelligently with a clear understanding of what needs immediate attention.
Common Issues Detected
Roofing & Exterior
- Missing or improperly installed flashing
- Caulking gaps around windows, doors, and penetrations
- Improper roof drainage or gutter installation
- Improper grading allowing water to flow toward the foundation
Plumbing & Water
- Slow drains, leaking pipes, or improper pipe slopes
- Water heater installation deficiencies
Electrical & HVAC
- AC condensate leaks in attic
When to Schedule
Timing is critical. You need enough time to have the inspection completed and for the builder to perform any required repairs before the warranty expires.
Recommended Timeline
- Schedule the inspection 3–4 weeks before your warranty expiration date.
- Submit your warranty repair request to the builder promptly after receiving the report.
- Allow time for the builder to respond and schedule any repair work before the deadline.
Coverage by California Builder Warranties (SB 800)
- 1 Year: Materials and workmanship defects, such as paint, drywall, flooring, and cabinets.
- 4 Years: Plumbing and electrical issues.
- 10 Years: Major structural defects, such as a collapsing foundation or significant roofing issues.
Important: Check your builder's warranty documentation carefully. Some warranties require written notice of defects within a specific timeframe. Your inspection report serves as the documentation needed to support that claim.
Ready to Schedule Your Warranty Inspection?
Don't let your builder's warranty expire without a professional review. We'll help you document what needs to be fixed while the builder is still responsible.